Former MP Golriz Ghahraman alleged to have stolen almost $10k in clothing, documents show

Wednesday, 31 January 2024

Former Green MP Golriz Ghahraman allegedly stole around $10,000 worth of clothing, court documents seen by Stuff show.

Police previously announced that they had laid charges against a 43-year-old woman following a shoplifting investigation.

While police did not name the person charged, they said it was in relation to an investigation that was “subject to ongoing public interest”.

The former Green MP, whose occupation is listed as a barrister on court documents, was set to appear at the Auckland District Court on Thursday, however she’s now set to appear on February 28.

The court documents show Ghahraman allegedly stole from at least two stores.

On October 22, a piece of clothing worth $695 was allegedly taken from the property of Cre8iveworx in Wellington.

Ghahraman then allegedly stole twice from Scotties Boutique in Ponsonby - once on December 21 taking an item worth $2060 and then a second time on December 23, taking an item valued at $7223.

Earlier this month, Ghahraman stood aside from all of her portfolios.

She had previously been the Green Party spokesperson for justice, foreign affairs, and a range of other topics.

On January 16, Ghahraman then announced her resignation as a Member of Parliament.

“It is clear to me that my mental health is being badly affected by the stresses relating to my work. This has led me to act in ways that are completely out of character. I am not trying to excuse my actions, but I do want to explain them,” Ghahraman said in a statement on January 16.

“People should, rightly, expect the highest standards of behaviour from their elected representatives. I fell short. I’m sorry. It’s not a behaviour I can explain because it’s not rational in any way, and after medical evaluation, I understand I’m not well.”

Ghahraman said she takes full responsibility for her actions, which she deeply regrets.

“I have let down a lot of people and I am very sorry.”