Events Director Jailed for Ripping Off Employer and Charity Cash
Simon Burke, 30, from Easton Lane, Northampton, has been sentenced at Aylesbury Crown Court after admitting to fraud by abuse of position. The former Events Director fraudulently pocketed thousands from his Milton Keynes employer.
Over £130k Stolen from Company and Charity Fund
Burke managed events for a retail business in Milton Keynes between May and December 2018. Using his role, he doctored invoices to reroute £103,660.80 into his own bank account, lining his pockets with company funds.
Shockingly, he also stole £28,000 intended as a donation to help refugees abroad – cash meant for vulnerable people in desperate need.
Police Praise Guilty Plea, Vow to Crack Down on Fraud
“Burke used his position in order to defraud his employer out of thousands of pounds,” said PC Jonathan Holt from Milton Keynes police station.
“What makes this crime even more shocking is that he was willing to take money that was earmarked for a charitable donation, which would have helped vulnerable refugees in need of aid in a foreign country.”
“I am satisfied that Burke has been sentenced and that he has faced up to his crime by pleading guilty. Thames Valley Police is committed to investigating fraud offences and we will continue to bring offenders before the courts to face justice.”
Timeline of Deceit
- Burke stole the funds between 1 May and 31 December 2018.
- He was arrested on 11 December 2019.
- Charged with fraud on 11 March 2020.
- Sentenced on 13 July 2021 at Aylesbury Crown Court.
