Fraudulent landscape gardener to serve prison sentence

20 November 2024

A rogue trader who charged people for work that was never started or not completed has been sentenced to 8 months in prison. 

On 13 November, Jonathan Welch, a landscape gardener who previously received a caution for similar offences, was found guilty under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 for eight separate offences. These offences stemmed from complaints by members of the public who had contracted Welch and paid in advance for landscaping work that was either never started or left incomplete. 

Welch had previously pled guilty at Northampton Magistrates Court but it was felt that the matter was serious enough to be committed to the Crown Court for sentencing. 

As part of his sentencing, Welch was also disqualified from acting as a company director for five years, in order to protect the public from further harm.  

The court was told that Welch’s actions had caused significant harm to his victims, who had collectively lost over £40,000. In delivering the sentence, the Recorder described Welch as a "rogue builder" whose deliberate actions resulted in considerable distress and financial hardship for his clients.

“This case serves as a strong reminder of the consequences of fraudulent business practices. We are pleased to see that the court has taken firm action to ensure that Welch faces the appropriate penalties for his actions. We hope this will provide some measure of justice for those involved, and send a clear message to others who may consider engaging in similar behaviour.”Cllr Matt Golby, WNC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Public Health and Regulatory Services

Residents who are looking for reputable traders in their area are encouraged to visit the Buy With Confidence website for those that are Trading Standards approved.