URGENT UPDATE: A truck driver was just sentenced to 40 months in jail for a fraudulent spending spree involving $50,000 on his ex-employer’s fuel card. Rhys Harbutt, 31, of Yellow Rock, hugged a loved one goodbye in Orange Local Court moments before he began serving his sentence on July 24, 2025, after committing extensive fraud during 2023.
Harbutt misappropriated a fuel card from his former employer, a Victorian transport company, using it to fuel up at various service stations across the region. This scheme unfolded months after his employment ended in January 2023. The fraud was uncovered when his ex-employer noticed suspicious activity linked to the card, prompting an investigation.
On May 22, 2023, the transport company discovered that a woman unrelated to the business had sought authorization through the BP fuel app using Harbutt’s stolen card. A week later, BP Australia alerted the company that its account was dangerously close to being overdrawn. The investigation revealed a shocking spending spree, with transactions totaling $14,281.14 on May 30 and $10,000 on May 31 at BP stations in Dubbo. Harbutt’s fuel purchases included both diesel and unleaded petrol, which were stored in steel drums and containers.
The theft came to light with support from BP Australia’s Loss Prevention Department, which analyzed transaction history and CCTV footage. Harbutt was ultimately arrested on October 4, 2024, after months of illicit activity.
In court, Solicitor Mason Manwaring pointed to Harbutt’s struggles with addiction, stating, “He was offending to support his drug habit.” Harbutt had previously served time for another offense but was out on bail when sentenced. He is currently under an intensive correction order until March 2026.
Prosecutor Sergeant Beau Riley emphasized the seriousness of the crime, noting, “He’s stolen from his ex-employer, which erodes confidence in the community.” The magistrate, Gary Wilson, addressed the magnitude of the theft, stating, “I have 16 charges here… they have been aggregated into one sentence.” Harbutt was ordered to repay the entire $50,000 to the transport company.
The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the offenses and serves as a reminder of the consequences of fraud. As Harbutt begins his prison term, his future remains uncertain, with the potential for upcoming rehabilitation programs.
This developing story highlights the ongoing issues of fraud and addiction within the community, raising questions about the impact on businesses and employee trust. Stay tuned for more updates on this case as it unfolds.
