Trading standards officer Robin Bendall built the case against rogue builder Sean Gartland over a two-and-a-half year investigation, painstakingly collating evidence from multiple victims who had been left out of pocket by more than £136,000.
Gartland admitted three offences relating to fraud and was sentenced to 32-months in prison at Derby Crown Court.
At the sentencing hearing, His Honour Judge Jonathan Bennett commended Robin’s work as the lead investigating officer, specifically requesting the commendation be passed to our Chief Executive Neil Crittenden in recognition of his efforts.
Head of Trading Standards Steve Allen said:
“This commendation was thoroughly deserved, reflecting the hours and hours of painstaking investigative work, attention to detail and determination required to bring this matter before the courts and secure justice for Gartland’s victims. “Across trading standards we recognise that these cases are a team effort, including huge support from colleagues in legal and business services.”
Chief Executive Neil Crittenden said:
“This is a tremendous piece of work, well done to Robin and everyone else who has been involved in this case. This work makes such a positive difference to our residents. You should all feel very proud.’’
As well as the successful prosecution secured by the team, with support from trading standards fair trading manager Trish Hennessy and legal colleagues including solicitor Claire Farrimond, the work managed to avoid a costly crown court trial.
The weight of evidence collated led to Gartland entering guilty pleas and therefore no trial was needed. Barristers’ fees alone could have been around £40-50k which would have had to be found from service or department budgets.
It also avoided the added stress and upheaval for victims who were main witnesses, meaning they were not subjected to lengthy cross examination.