New Zealand Woman Accused of Killing Mother for Crypto

A New Zealand woman is accused of murdering her elderly mother and covering it up as an accident. Reports suggest she stole thousands from her mother, Helen Gregory, to invest in cryptocurrencies before her death. Julia DeLuney, 53, a former teacher, allegedly faced financial difficulties during this period. Prosecutors revealed that significant amounts of money, including NZD 85,000 ($50,930), went missing shortly before Gregory's death. Friends testified that Gregory was distressed over her daughter's actions and claimed she had invested the money without permission. Forensic analysis indicated DeLuney transferred NZD 156,555 ($93,840) to cryptocurrency platforms but only recovered NZD 88,173 ($52,851), leaving a significant shortfall. The alleged murder occurred on January 24, 2024, in their Khandallah home, with DeLuney's defense suggesting police unfairly targeted her as the sole suspect. The trial continues in Wellington, highlighting the complex interplay between financial greed and familial betrayal.