Rogue trader told to repay victim in full

A DESPICABLE rogue trader who swindled more than £3,500 from a vulnerable Great Barr woman has been ordered to repay his victim in full.

Wolverhampton Magistrates Court heard that Austin Jackson, from Wolverhampton, promised to carry out work in the homeowner’s loft and fit a brand new kitchen.

But the court was told that Jackson took the money and had no intention of carrying out the work.

The victim was left out of pocket and was unable to pay another contractor to finish the project.

Jackson pleaded guilty to three offences under the Fraud Act 2006, Theft Act 1968 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

The court ordered Mr Jackson to repay the victim in full, pay £2,000 in costs and a victim surcharge of £80.

He was also given a threemonth weekend curfew and has to wear a tag to monitor his movements.

Bob Charnley, Sandwell Council’s trading standards and licensing manager, said: “I welcome this result as it shows traders cannot get away with taking advantage of people when they are vulnerable. We all have difficult times in our lives and we don’t expect to be exploited by unscrupulous individuals.”

Councillor Elaine Costigan, cabinet member for public health and protection, added: “Trading standards in Sandwell works hard to protect consumers and honest traders in the borough, but unfortunately this is far from an isolated incident. Fortunately, most businesses are honest.

“Having work done on our homes can be an expensive and stressful experience and we should be able to have confidence in those we employ.”