A prolific fraudster has admitted scamming numerous would-be tenants out of hundreds of pounds.

Salisbury Magistrates’ Court heard that during the last year, Kyle Jackson, 31, of Hart Close, Wilton (main image), repeatedly advertised his flat for rent online and arranged viewings with the victims.

He took an average of £600 deposit and £600 in rent, either via cash or a bank transfer into a relative’s account and gave an email or handwritten receipt. He then refused to rent out the property or return the money, making excuses such as he would pay it back to them the following week.

Jackson was reported to police and arrested. In court, he pleaded guilty to nine counts of fraud by false representation and is due to be sentenced on 12th March.

Consequences

PC Bues, of Salisbury response team, says Jackson’s actions had serious, real-world consequences and that one of the victims was made homeless as a result. He explains that processes are now underway to see if the victims can receive compensation.

“I would ask people that if you are renting a flat or a room, please remember to do your due diligence on where you are renting and who you are renting from,” adds Bues.

“Go through reputable platforms if possible, for example your local estate agents, or renting websites which have basic verification for adverts.

“Keep all conversations on the platforms themselves to ensure the correspondence is kept. I would also encourage renters to always view in person first and not to send money beforehand, albeit that did occur in these cases. Please notify your bank at the earliest concern and never pay in cash.”

Images: Salisbury Police/Streetview