Crime Solicitors

A family business has been prosecuted under the Fraud Act 2006, after an investigation by Trading Standards at The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

The seven offences the business was charges with relate to six customers who had either been overcharged for roofing and other building work – or had been charged for work not carried out.

According to a surveyor commissioned by Trading Standards, the total overcharge for the six victims was in the region of £75,000. However, this figure was disputed by the defendants.

Guilty pleas were entered at the first opportunity available and this was reflected in the sentences handed down.

Father and son Anthony George Reed, 60, and Tony Albert George Reed, 26 – both of Almond Close in Windsor and trading as ABC Roofing – pleaded guilty on Tuesday 2 February to six charges and one charge, respectively.

On Monday 14 March at Reading Crown Court, the two men were sentenced for seven offences under the Fraud Act 2006.

For the six offences to which he had pleaded guilty, Anthony George Reed was sentenced to 20 months, three six-month periods, eight months and four months, to run concurrently. This sentence was suspended for two years. An 18-month supervision order and attendance of a Thinking Skills Programme were also imposed.

For the one offence to which he had pleaded guilty, Tony Albert George Reed was sentenced to 180 hours of unpaid work, a 12-month community order and a 12-month supervision order.

The Reeds have paid around £35,000 compensation to the victims of their crimes.

No further award was made at this sentencing hearing for costs or compensation because proceedings are now to follow against the two men under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

The Royal Borough’s Cabinet Member for environmental services, Councillor Carwyn Cox said:

“This is another example of our Trading Standards team acting to protect our residents by confronting and dealing with serious fraudulent activity.

“Bringing this case to court has required persistence and determination by officers – and it should be a warning to others that we will not hesitate to take action against those looking to take advantage of people.”

Duncan Lewis Fraud Lawyers

Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers can advise at any stage of an investigation or charge for fraud, including charges relating to rogue traders, financial fraud, company fraud, misrepresentation, investment fraud, Ponzi schemes and white collar crime.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and a criminal defence solicitor can usually reach a police station to advise on fraud charges within an hour. Duncan Lewis can also advise on offences under the Fraud Act before charges are brought, as well as advising on the Proceeds of Crime Act and Confiscation Orders.

For expert legal advice on fraud charges, call Duncan Lewis fraud lawyers on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.