A fraudulent individual absconded from the UK along with his spouse after embezzling a substantial sum from a client who engaged with their window company. Steven Wright, aged 50, in partnership with his wife Louise, 45, operating The Cheshire Windows Outlet, duped homeowner Samuel Bardsley by pocketing a deposit exceeding £4,000 for windows and doors installation, only to sever all communication thereafter. Bardsley, seeking renovations for his farm residence, found himself abandoned amidst the project.
The perpetrator vanished immediately post the transaction, with speculations placing the couple in the US, particularly Florida. Authorities have been unsuccessful in apprehending them, but plans are in place for their arrest upon reentry into the UK. Judge Jenny Lester-Ashworth disclosed, “They are living abroad in America. When they re-enter the jurisdiction they will be arrested and they will be brought before the crown court.”
During the trial at Minshull Street Crown Court, it was revealed that Wright continued to manage the business despite previous disqualifications as a director. Both Wrights were convicted in absentia following the legal proceedings. Trading Standards Officer Belinda Phelan initiated an inquiry into the company prompted by a referral from citizens advice, uncovering fraudulent practices and illegal directorial actions.
Bardsley’s ordeal commenced with an inquiry on Facebook regarding the home improvement project, culminating in a deposit payment of over £4,000. Despite six months of unfruitful attempts to schedule installations and subsequent revelations of delayed window orders, Bardsley opted to terminate the contract, demanding a refund that never materialized. Expressing his dismay during the trial, he lamented being deceived by what appeared to be a reputable local company.
The Wrights exhibited reluctance to cooperate with Trading Standards during the investigation, a pattern that persisted through their absence at the trial. On September 11, unanimous verdicts were returned by jurors, convicting Steven Wright of fraud and contravention of disqualification orders. Louise Wright was found complicit in breaching disqualification orders by enabling her husband’s role. The company was also implicated in defying disqualification orders but acquitted of an additional fraud charge.
The judge opted against sentencing the couple in absentia due to insufficient information and considerations for their children. Coun Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture, and Public Protection at Stockport Council, commended the prosecution as a demonstration of the council’s commitment to safeguarding residents and holding deceitful entities accountable. The case underscores the council’s resolve to combat fraudulent activities and protect the community from exploitative practices.