Fake Tahitian prince Joel Morehu-Barlow forever in our debt

HE used to shop at Louis Vuitton. But Joel Morehu-Barlow might have to settle for discount stores after his debt to Queensland was revealed. The weekly interest bill alone would cripple anyone but the most wealthy individual.

Joel Morehu-Barlow was sentenced to 14 years’ jail in 2013 for fraudulently siphoning $16.69 million from Queensland Health. He has been eligible for parole since December.

FAKE Tahitian prince Joel Morehu-Barlow would have to pay back $11,000 a week just to pay off the interest on his debt to Queensland, which could see him paying back the state for the rest of his life.

Barlow was jailed in 2013 for fraudulently siphoning $16.69 million from Queensland Health, splurging the cash on luxuries like Louis Vuitton products, but the debt repayments could see him limited to shopping at discount stores.

Even if he claims bankruptcy his $10.5 million court ordered debt would not be extinguished, legal sources say, which could see his wages garnished and any assets he acquires sold until the massive amount is repaid.

Louis Vuitton bags were among the expensive goods the fake prince splashed out on.

Because every ‘prince’ needs a crown: Another lavish product he owned. Pics: Steve Pohlner

But the Queensland Government would first have to apply to have the court judgment on Barlow’s fraud and repayment registered and enforced in New Zealand.

New Zealand barrister Paul Dalkie, who specialises in bankruptcy, said there was almost no chance the $10.5 million would be paid back, but Barlow could be under perpetual obligation for repayments. Mr Dalkie said that, if enforced, the judgment could see any wages Barlow earns in the future garnished and assets sold.

“He would be able to claim reasonable living expenses, but that is about it ... so rent, clothing, food,” he said.

Joel Morehu-Barlow.

After his arrest.

A spokesman for the Queensland Government would not say if the Government would apply to have Barlow’s judgment registered and enforced in New Zealand.

“Mr Barlow’s future is currently a matter under the consideration of the Queensland Parole Board,” he said. “The Government will not comment further on Mr Barlow’s circumstances until that matter is resolved.”

Barlow was sentenced to 14 years’ jail in 2013, but has been eligible for parole since December.