Fraudster Ordered To Repay His Victims Over One Hundred Thousand Pounds

Thursday, 18 October, 2012

A convicted fraudster has been stripped of over £130,000 worth of criminal gains.

Darren John Upton (40) of Woodlesford appeared before Leeds Crown Court today and a confiscation order was granted under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

Upton is currently serving a six year prison sentence after being convicted of fraud offences.

He worked as an accountant and had been receiving payments from clients and friends in order to pay their Corporation Tax to the HMRC only to deposit the money into his own bank accounts.

The Court today heard how the value of Upton's crime was deemed to be £496,802 and he now has 6 months to pay £132,416 or face a further two years in prison.

The Judge HHJ Cahill QC ordered the money available should be distributed amongst Upton's victims.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Lawrenson of West Yorkshire Police's Crime Division said: "Upton was incredibly deceitful, tricking his clients and friends into thinking they were paying their taxes when really they were funding his lavish lifestyle.

"I'm very pleased the Judge has ordered the confiscated money to be paid to the victims in this case and hope it brings them some closure following their deception.

"The Proceeds of Crime Act is allowing us to strip criminals of their illegal gains and give something back to local communities."

This month officers have been targeting those who are living off the proceeds of crime and last week arrested 33 people, executed 39 search warrants and recovered cash, drugs, counterfeit products and other stolen items as part of a week of action.

Why should criminals get away with living off the proceeds of crime? If you tell us we will take action. If you have any information call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit www.westyorkshire.police.uk/whyshouldthey

To receive live updates of action as it happens follow @westyorkspolice on Twitter or search #wypocaweek