A self-employed gardener from Long Compton, Warwickshire, who urged customers to 'take a leap of faith' while assuring them he had never let anyone down, has been sentenced for defrauding 13 victims out of more than £39,000. The scam operated between 2019 and 2024, primarily targeting residents in the Banbury area.
How the Scam Worked
The gardener would ask for large sums of money upfront, offering 'special deals' to pressure customers into quick bank transfers. In most cases, he would complete a small amount of work before halting and providing excuses for delays, such as snow, his van breaking down, or cutting his hand with secateurs. Sometimes, he offered sheds, plants, or materials at low prices, claiming special supplier deals, then demanded immediate payment to 'secure' the deal.
According to Warwickshire Police, 'Ultimately, goods or services would not be delivered and, after responding to customers with an array of excuses, he would eventually go silent and ignore further attempts at communication.'
Investigation and Charges
Following an extensive investigation by Detective Constable Alison Roberts, the gardener was charged with 13 counts of fraud by false representation. The jobs ranged from basic gardening to building walls, creating an outdoor model railway, and a pond. When confronted with evidence, he could not provide proof of purchasing any materials or plants for which he had taken money.
At Warwick Crown Court on Wednesday, July 15, he was sentenced to 36 months in prison, suspended for 30 months, along with 200 hours of unpaid work and 20 days of rehabilitation activity.
Impact on Victims
DC Roberts stated: 'Rogue traders like this cause significant distress to their customers, as well as embarrassment to the community of hard-working, honest tradespeople across our county. I want to thank each one of the residents who reported this individual’s behaviour and helped with the information we needed to see him held to account.'
The case highlights the importance of verifying tradespeople and being cautious of upfront payments and high-pressure sales tactics.
