A Warwickshire gardener who persuaded homeowners to hand over large sums for gardening and building work has been sentenced after being found to have defrauded customers of more than £39,000.
Victims paid large deposits then work stopped
The offending began in 2019, the court heard. The defendant, a 51‑year‑old man from Long Compton, was employed by residents largely in Banbury to carry out jobs including general gardening, wall building, constructing ponds and making an outdoor model railway.
Prosecution evidence described a pattern in which customers were asked to pay substantial sums in advance to secure materials or discounted goods. After payments were made, only a small amount of work would be completed and then the defendant would stop attending, giving a series of excuses for delays.
He encouraged customers to "take a leap of faith", the court was told.
Excuses reportedly offered to customers included adverse weather, breakdowns of his van and an injury to his hand while using secateurs. On some occasions he purported to offer sheds, plants and other materials at reduced prices through alleged supplier deals, pressuring people to transfer funds quickly to secure the bargains. In many cases the goods or services were never delivered and, when pressed for refunds, the man either provided further excuses or ceased contact.
Charges and sentence
He was prosecuted for a series of fraud offences and the case was heard at Warwick Crown Court. The defendant was convicted on 13 fraud charges and received a prison sentence of 36 months, which was suspended.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Offender age | 51 |
| Residence | Long Compton |
| Amount taken | More than £39,000 |
| Charges | 13 fraud offences |
| Sentence | 36 months, suspended |
Local impact and consumer caution
The offending affected homeowners in the wider Warwickshire area. Cases of traders demanding sizeable upfront payments for materials and work are a recurring concern for residents, particularly where payments are made before materials are purchased or significant progress has been made.
- Always ask for written estimates and receipts for payments.
- Check traders’ identities and local references before paying large deposits.
- Consider paying by traceable methods (bank transfer or card) rather than cash.
Complaints in this case were reported to Warwickshire Police, leading to the prosecution. The suspended sentence means the offender will avoid immediate custody but will remain subject to the court’s conditions and potential recall if those conditions are breached.
Residents with concerns about rogue traders or potential fraud are advised to contact local police or trading standards for advice and to report suspected offending.
