A lettings agent who conned landlords in a repairs scam has been spared jail.
Saleem Kassim worked for Leaders, in Warrington. The firm has totally condemned his behaviour, saying it goes against everything it stands for, but is an isolated example.
On seven occasions, he told landlords of properties he managed that their central heating systems needed repair.
The work did not need doing and was not carried out, but Kassim paid the £16,500 the landlords gave him into his own account.
His successor at the branch uncovered the swindle after Kassim left Leaders.
Kassim, now a taxi driver, was said to be genuinely remorseful about his actions which he committed when he was in debt.
He admitted fraud earlier at Warrington Magistrates Court, and has now been sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court.
Judge Stuart Driver handed him a 12-month sentence suspended for a year. Kassim must also carry out a rehabilitation activity and do 70 hours of unpaid work.
The judge said to him: “You’ve said if you don’t go to prison today that you intend to repay the money, but I don’t believe you.
“You defrauded customers of yours out of £16,500 over one and a half years when you were in a position of trust.
“But you are a hard-working family man with three young children, and this is a case in which there is a realistic prospect of rehabilitation.
“This is your one and only chance – if I see you again you’re going to prison.”
Kassim will face a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing later this year.
Yesterday Leaders lettings managing director Emma Wells said: “The behaviour of this individual goes completely against the values of the company and he acted outside a strictly controlled process, we work hard to secure the trust of our landlords by offering expert guidance and a proactive service.
“This activity was reported as soon as we became aware of it, we took appropriate action internally and fully reimbursed the affected Landlord. Our clients can rest assured that this was a disappointing but isolated incident, and our financial security and Propertymark Protection mean their investments are fully protected.”
Comments (4)
Yet in an article on Monday, EYE reported the 2 year custodial sentence given to another Agent for fraud. The investigating officer is reported to have said
“…It should reassure people that we will do all we can to ensure that we protect the vulnerable and bring to justice those who offend against them.”
I wonder what material difference existed between these two acts or the individuals who carried them out that meant porridge for one and a few hours community service for the other?
It’s funny how folk are always sincerely regretful – after they’ve been caught.
No different to adding 18% to all Landlord invoices really is it Leaders!!!!
Thank you DSS59, Absolutely set me up for the day!