Father and Son Rogue Traders Convicted
A father and son trading as Greenwood Tree Services were convicted at Reading Crown Court on Friday 18th March 2022. Jimmy Cole Senior age 56 and Jimmy Cole Junior age 33 of Penny Hill Caravan Site, Minley Road, Blackwater, Camberley, GU17 9LT, both admitted Fraud and offences under Consumer Regulations.
At the beginning of October 2018 the Public Protection Partnership, was tasked with investigating Greenwood Tree Services. A number of complaints had been received by the Trading Standards Service. Victims stated that the pair cold called at their homes, offering to undertake gardening work. Various false representations were made specifically by the younger Mr Cole to consumers alleging that the company was carrying out work to neighbouring properties, and the work included a maintenance contract. Cash was demanded as payment and victims were not advised of their cancellation rights. In the majority of cases the work was not completed, and if challenged the pair would become aggressive and threatening. Counsel for Mr Cole Snr explained to the Court, that he was not in employment at present, and was assisting his family to care for his elderly mother. Mr Cole Jnr informed the Court that he was no longer in business with his father, he also assists in the care of family members.
Recorder Smith sitting at Reading Crown Court stated that the Cole’s had intimidated victims into agreeing to work that they did not need, they threatened them in their own home and left them scared. Jimmy Cole Snr was sentenced to 32 weeks imprisonment concurrent on each count suspended for a period of two years with a 20 day rehabilitation activity and a Curfew requirement from 10 p.m. – 7 a.m. for 3 months (within the confines of his caravan park). Jimmy Cole Jnr was sentenced to a total of 46 weeks imprisonment suspended for two years (with 28 weeks for the regulatory offences to run concurrent) with an unpaid work requirement of 180 hours and rehabilitation activity.
Any resident that has concerns about rogue trader activity should contact the service on 01635 519930 or e-mail tsadvice@westberks.gov.uk. If you feel threatened or in danger by the presence of the cold caller, call the police emergency number 999.
