‘Arrogant and Greedy’ Con Man Gets Four and A Half Years for Surrey Crimes

Published on: 28 Jun, 2012
Updated on: 28 Jun, 2012

A conman found guilty of 33 counts of fraud by false representation has been sentenced to four and a half years imprisonment at Guildford Crown Court on Tuesday (26 June).

John Alexander Taylor of Lordings Road, Billingshurst was found guilty of the offences which happened between May 2009 and August 2011 and amounted to more than £235,000. The 64-year-old duped his victims into thinking he was a wealthy property developer and entrepreneur, gaining their trust so that he could persuade them to part with their money.

In Surrey, five victims were conned out of money by Taylor, including an Albury resident who accepted an offer from him on the sale of his home and handed over £3,000 for a charity ball which was never to be held. A fraudulent attempt to buy a top of the range executive car from a garage in Guildford failed when the funds provided could not be honoured but again, cash was donated to Taylor’s fictional charity events by the unsuspecting salesman.

John Taylor – Sentenced to four and a half years

Detective Constable Clare Nettleton said: “The length of this sentence represents the arrogance, greed and recklessness of John Taylor’s behaviour. He showed no remorse and maintained his innocence throughout the trial. He has not only made a crime out of conning people but he has left his victims with a lasting unease about how they interact with strangers.

“Taylor is a clever individual who created new companies and enticed people into business ventures with him, on the promise of good salaries and an inviting bonus package. He made bogus payments from a defunct bank account and his lack of scruples saw people part with hundreds of pounds and leave secure jobs.

“Surrey Police worked closely with Sussex Police throughout the investigation which brought Taylor to trial. It was a lengthy and detailed enquiry which demonstrates the force will work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice. The sentencing of John Taylor should serve as a reminder that anyone who undertakes such callous acts of fraud could similarly face imprisonment.”