Jail for Man Who Hired Out Caravan that Did Not Exist

A man has been jailed for sixteen weeks after he used Facebook to rent out a caravan that didn't exist.

Mark Bedder, 31, pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation at Mansfield Magistrates' Court on Thursday November 30.

Bedder advertised the caravan, which he claimed was in Skegness, on Facebook. A woman who saw the advert paid Bedder £100 before travelling to Skegness with her family, only to find no sign of the caravan.

She reported the incident to Nottinghamshire Police who arrested Bedder following an investigation. As well as the prison sentence, he was also ordered to pay £200 in compensation to the victim.

Detective Constable Richard Cornell, of Nottinghamshire Police's fraud team, said:

"There is a trend in the way criminals are operating, with offenders turning to online fraud because they think it is easier.  It's our job to do everything possible to make sure this is not the case. We want to highlight that we have absolutely no tolerance towards people who commit online fraud.

"It can be incredibly distressing for victims who experience this kind of crime. We have a dedicated team who will follow up any report and do everything they can to bring offenders to justice."

If you are facing a fraud allegation, call our team for expert legal advice. Speak to us in confidence on 01159 419 141.

The Johnson Partnership

Fraud Solicitors