Loan shark who targeted poorest estate facing prison
ALOAN shark who admitted lending money illegally for two decades in Wales’ most deprived community has been warned he faces a “lengthy” prison sentence.
Robert Sparey, 55, from Y Cilgant in Caerphilly, pleaded guilty to illegal money-lending, money laundering, selling counterfeit cigarettes and perverting the course of justice.
Speaking at Cardiff Crown Court, prosecutor Tim Evans said: “He has been a money-lender since the late Nineties.”
The court heard the offending occurred over a 20-year period between 1997 and 2017.
Sparey’s case was listed for a plea and trial preparation hearing before Judge Eleri Rees yesterday.
He pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in unlicensed money-lending and one count of unauthorised money-lending.
The defendant admitted possessing criminal property between January 2011 and April 2017, relating to the proceeds of the money-lending, as well as counterfeit cigarettes.
He pleaded guilty to an offence under the Trade Marks Act, which related to counterfeit tobacco, likely to be mistaken for Mayfair cigarettes.
He also admitted perverting the course of justice between January and May this year by attempting to persuade several people to give false evidence.
Sparey denied one count of intending to pervert the course of justice between 2004 and 2006, concerning evidence he gave in civil proceedings. That count was ordered to lie on file.
He entered his pleas on a basis and the judge noted there may need to be a trial of issue. Judge Rees warned the defendant he could face a “lengthy” prison sentence.
The prosecution is brought by the Wales Illegal Money Lending Unit and Cardiff Council.
A spokesman said: “The illegal lending offences spread over 20 years and took place in Lansbury Park, which is rated as the most deprived community in Wales.”
Sparey was granted bail on the conditions he does not give any more loans or approach any witnesses.
He must also surrender his passport and stay at home every night between 8pm and 6am.
Prosecutors indicated there will be an application under the Proceeds of Crime Act when he is sentenced. Sparey will next appear in court on Monday, December 4.