Scammer must repay victims

James Alexander Grozier, 36, who ran Direct Trade Frames in Pelham Street, Mansfield was found guilty of five charges of fraud by false representation at Nottingham Magistrates Court last week.

He had denied the charges at an earlier trial but had admitted one charge of failing to provide a cancellation notice.

He was ordered to complete 242 hours of unpaid work and must pay back £3,030 to five victims.

Trading Standards officers from Notts County Council began investigating Grozier after receiving a number of complaints that he had taken money for work he had not done and not provided correct contact details on paperwork.

His victims - from Worksop, Skegness, Spilsby and Nottingham - handed over sums ranging from £130 to £1,400 for work, including new doors and windows.

All repeatedly tried to contact Grozier after paying deposits but he never returned their calls.

None of the victims were classed as vulnerable. Many had picked up leaflets promoting Direct Trade Frames and contacted the company.

Grozier took the deposits after visiting the victims and providing quotes.

Coun Mick Murphy, cabinet member for community safety said, “This case goes to show that it is not only the vulnerable that can become victims of conmen and that we all need to be on our guard and aware of our rights.”