8 February 2011

Two rogue traders who conned elderly couples in Norfolk and Suffolk out of their live savings have been jailed.

Michael Williams, 33, and Anthony Field, 27, and both from Lowestoft, appeared for sentencing yesterday (February 8) at Norwich Crown Court.

Both had admitted conning elderly residents out of thousands of pounds by encouraging them to have home improvements carried out but then never completing the work.

Williams, of Westland Road, admitted three counts of conspiracy to defraud and was jailed for eight years. Field, of Chaulkers Crescent, Carlton Colville, near Lowestoft, pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to defraud and was sentenced to six years imprisonment.

In July last year the duo cold called at a home in Glenmore Avenue, Caister, and persuaded the residents to agree to internal and external improvements.

On several occasions Field drove the residents to cash points in order to get large sums of money – more than what was required for the work being carried out.

Williams and Field targeted more than 30 homes in the Yarmouth and Waveney area and conned residents out of a more than £65,000.

Det Sgt Pete Jessop, from Norfolk Constabulary’s specialist door-step-crime team Operation RADAR, said: “Williams and Field preyed on vulnerable people and the sentences passed reflect the gravity of their offences.

This case reinforces the strong stance that the police and courts in Norfolk are taking against these wicked crimes.”

He added: “Our advice to householders, especially the elderly, would be to remain vigilant and be wary of anyone turning up on their doorstop unannounced who cannot provide credible identity documents.

People can help us by calling the police straight away if they have been approached by anyone they are suspicious of so we can catch the culprits red handed. If the caller is legitimate, this can also be quickly confirmed.”