Posted on Wednesday 22nd May 2024
Photo Credit: StokeonTrentLive of Richard Stubbs and Carl Egerton outside Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
Two rogue traders from Staffordshire have been found guilty of offences relating to fraudulent trading and ripping off customers.
Richard Stubbs, a former police officer, aged 55 of High End View, Endon, and co-accused Carl Egerton, aged 54 of Basford Green, Cheddleton, have been found guilty of fraudulent trading and perverting the course of justice. The case was heard at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in a six-week trial which started on 8 April 2024. Both entered pleas of not guilty during the trial.
The jury found Stubbs guilty of taking money upfront from customers for home improvements and not completing the work. Egerton, a builder who carried out work on behalf of Stubbs, was found guilty of one charge of fraud.
The case has been adjourned to a later date, when they will be sentenced. Stubbs has been remanded in custody until the sentencing hearing.
The hearing follows a five-year long investigation by Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service.
Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council said:
“This was a particularly nasty case and we’re pleased with the outcome and the jury’s decision.
“Not only did Stubbs take money upfront from customers and not complete or only partially complete the work, but many of the victims were vulnerable or people going through a difficult time.
“Our Trading Standards service works hard to protect local communities from rogue traders and will always take action against any traders or businesses who behave inappropriately.”
At the trial, the Court was told that Stubbs sold kitchens and bathrooms to consumers initially via Idesign Kitchens & Bathrooms Ltd and then subsequently by Peak Kitchens & Bathroom Ltd. Stubbs was the man behind both of those businesses.
In one case a victim handed over in excess of £100,000 for unsatisfactory and unfinished work.