Ref: 156/08 2 May 2008
Trading Standards Issue Warning to Residents Following Prosecution of Rogue Trader
Cheshire Trading Standards are reminding residents to be on their guard against rogue traders after successfully prosecuting a Winsford man who conned victims into paying for unnecessary roof repairs.
Gwyn Hamilton was convicted of a number of offences at Chester Crown Court following a two-year investigation into his roofing and maintenance business.
The court heard how Hamilton cold-called on his victims and pressurised or bullied them into having work done which in some cases was not necessary or wanted.
Trading as Northwest Roofing, Fascia Finish, Hamilton & Sons and G&J Roofing, Hamilton also failed to give customers a notice detailing their right to a seven day cancellation period.
His victims were from Northwich, Ellesmere Port, Poynton, Warrington and Wrexham.
Appearing before the court on Tuesday April 29, Hamilton pleaded guilty to two offences under the Trade Description Act and six offences under the Consumer Protection (Cancellation of Contracts Concluded away from Business Premises) Regulations 1987. He asked for two further offences to be taken into consideration.
Sentencing Hamilton, His Honour Judge Elgan Edwards commented that he was "treating his customers with complete contempt" and that it "simply will not be tolerated".
He was sentenced to 150 hours unpaid work, forfeiture of two vehicles seized by Cheshire and Warrington Trading Standards, and was ordered to pay £11,755.25 costs and £3,750 compensation to his victims.
Hamilton, of Beechfield, Winsford, was also given an anti-social behaviour order (ASBO) preventing him from cold-calling for two years.
Following the conclusion of the case the Judge commended Cheshire and Warrington Trading Standards.
Head of Cheshire Trading Standards Dr Paul McGreary said: "As a result of this conviction, consumer protection has been increased.
"The imposition of an ASBO means that if Hamilton is discovered cold-calling during the next two years he can be brought back before the courts and sentenced to up to five years in prison."
Superintendent Jon Betts of Cheshire Police's Western Area said: "We are pleased at the imposition of the ASBO against Hamilton.
"He is a prime example of someone who preys on some of the most vulnerable members of our communities for financial gain.
"Cheshire Police, together with our partner agencies, is working hard to put a stop to this type of offence and the ASBO will give us greater powers to monitor Hamilton and take more stringent action if necessary.
"Hopefully the ASBO will have the desired effect and prevent further offences. If not we are prepared to take further robust action to protect the people of Cheshire."
Trading Standards officers advise members of the public never to enter into a contract or agreement with someone who ‘cold-calls’.
Explained Dr McGreary: "We would advise that two or three quotations should be obtained from traders who have confirmed premises and whose work has been recommended, or whose previous work can be inspected.
"Look for a trader who is a member of a reputable trade association, and do not pay for work up front."
Trading Standards can be contacted on 08454 04 05 06.
Ends
RN/KT
Notes to Editors: For further information please contact Andrew Rees, Trading Standards Team Manager (Investigations), on 01244 973971. |