Gardening Fraudster Scams Vulnerable Sheffield Residents
Jamie Woodcock, 35, preyed on vulnerable Sheffield residents with a nasty scam. He cold-called people at home, claiming they needed gardening work. After agreeing a price, he duped victims into buying fake extra equipment—then took their cash and vanished.
Cold Calls and Empty Promises
Woodcock demanded upfront payments but never showed up to do the work. His fraud hit the Wharncliffe Side, Stocksbridge, Wisewood, and High Green areas between April 21 and June 15. The victims were left out of pocket and betrayed.
Police Nab Persistent Offender
Sheffield North West Neighbourhood Team quickly tracked Woodcock down, linking him to similar scams around Sheffield and Rotherham. PC Ben Woodley said: “I’m pleased that justice has been achieved for the victims of Woodcock’s unscrupulous behaviour. He is a persistent offender, who continued to target the most vulnerable, elderly people in our community.”
Woodcock was lucky to avoid jail, receiving a 52-week prison sentence suspended for two years. He must repay £1,450 to victims, complete 150 hours of unpaid work, and undergo two years of supervision. PC Woodley warned: “A custodial sentence awaits if he does not” change his ways.
