A FORMER Newport County AFC player who admitted defrauding the school he worked at of more than £15,000 to pay off gambling debts has been branded an “idiot” by a judge.

Cortez Belle, who played for The Exiles in 2005, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court today, Thursday, after previously admitting two counts of fraud in which he pocketed £15,747.94.

The court heard the 33-year-old, of Orb Drive, Newport, was working as a data manager at Fitzalan High School in Cardiff when he diverted cash intended for the school and a supply teacher into his own bank account.

Lucie Stoker, defending, said her client was “exceptionally remorseful” for his actions.

“But he doesn’t want that to be empty words,” she said. …

Read the full article at: http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/15365112.Ex_Newport_County_player_stole_from_school_to_pay_off_gambling_debts/