A rogue trader who preyed on vulnerable older residents in Buckinghamshire has been given a 30-month prison sentence after conning his victims out of more than £93,500.
Thomas Patrick Sweeney, a 43-year-old from Marsh Lane in Bishopstone, pleaded guilty to home improvement fraud at Aylesbury Crown Court on 21 March 2023. The Judge observed that the unnecessary work was not only overcharged, but the work done was 'abysmal' and priced extortionately.
During the sentencing hearing, the court heard how Sweeney, who initially cold called at his victims' property, conned them out of large amounts of money by targeting them and making them believe – wrongly – that they needed extensive roof and chimney improvement works to their High Wycombe home.
The defendant was sentenced for fraud, including by grossly overcharging for work.
In total, the victims paid a total of £93,500 in cheque payments towards the amounts sought by the defendant, which totalled £110,600.
Emergency drought fund applications opening to help Bucks farmers with financial pressure
Long-delayed High Wycombe highway schemes given ‘one last chance’ for completion
Aylesbury bar holding demonstration after concerns over new homes nearby
Bucks New Uni gives Paralympic champion honorary doctorate
Bucks Council invite us to help shape their new Homelessness strategy
Town Council unveils a new art mural bringing positivity and inclusivity to Aylesbury
MP launches petition calling on Bucks Council to temporarily reopen Winslow Centre
