Fraudster in court for swindling sister

HE CONNED HER OUT OF THOUSANDS OF POUNDS TO PAY FOR GAMBLING

A SERIAL fraudster has been hauled back before the courts for conning his own sister out of thousands of pounds – to fund his gambling addiction.

Amrik Gill has repeatedly hit the headlines for ticket scams which have included swindling cash from Manchester’s football and music fans.

The 31-year-old, from Chorlton, has racked up more than 65 convictions dating back to 2010 and has spent several stretches behind bars.

The con artist is most known for his prolific targeting of football fans seeking tickets for big matches, including several United home games.

On each occasion, he would contact people looking for tickets and take their payment but the tickets did not exist and when his ‘customers’ tried to get in touch he would ignore their calls.

In his latest court appearance at Manchester Magistrates’ Court, Gill, pictured, was branded by a District Judge as a ‘predator’ after admitting six counts of fraud by false representation.

The court was told he had opened up betting accounts with Sky Bet, Jackpotjoy and Betfred using his sister’s details and bank account. Gill subsequently moved money from her bank into the betting accounts so he could fund his longstanding gambling problem.

Prosecutor, Andrew Martin said the sum was around £3,000 and said Gill’s prolific record meant the case was too serious to be dealt with by the magistrates’ court.

Gill’s defence lawyer, Andrew Mawson, told the court that his client’s offending all stemmed from a gambling addiction – for which he is said to be seeking help.

“The main problem is his gambling addiction, which he has had since he was 17,” Mr Mawson said. “He says that is what has led him to commit his previous offences. He has been trying to put things right and is giving his sister £50 a fortnight in order to pay her back.

District Judge Dave demanded the case be sent to Manchester Crown Court.

He said: “I am not closing off options to keep you out of circulation to prevent anyone else who is unfortunate enough to come into contact with you.”

Gill was granted unconditional bail and will be sentenced at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court on December 11.