Rogue trader imprisoned for conning vulnerable residents

Terry Green, 20, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 18 months in jail for his part in defrauding two elderly victims when carrying out roofing and driveway work, a spokesperson said.

Green, along with his father William, 48, of Sompting, was found guilty of fraud by Worthing Magistrates Court last year, confirmed the spokesperson.

William Green is appealing the conviction, the spokesperson said.

The pair overcharged their vulnerable victims a substantial amount for poor and inept work carried out in 2015, said the spokesperson.

One victim paid £7,500 for roofing work that was worth between £250 and £300, while the other victim, 95, paid £3,600 in 2015 for driveway work worth £600, according to the spokesperson.

They were brought to justice after Trading Standards followed up consumer complaints.

David Barling, West Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for residents’ services, said: “We are delighted this investigation has ended with a successful conviction.”

“Both men caused great distress to their victims, lying to them about the safety of their homes and then producing shoddy work under the pretence they were fixing them.”

He added: “We’d like to remind all residents that using a Trading Standards approved trader safeguards them against this kind of behaviour.”

“You can find all our approved traders in our free Buy With Confidence directory.”

To find an approved trader visit www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

To report a rogue trader contact Trading Standards online at www.wessussex.gov.uk/tsreport or via Citizens Advice on 03454 040506.

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