Callous Fraudster Jailed for Targeting Elderly Across Sussex
A ruthless scammer who preyed on the elderly and vulnerable in Sussex and the South East has been slammed behind bars for nearly seven years. James Trodd, 30, netted around £100,000 from his despicable fraud spree.
Underworld Aliases and a Two-Year Manhunt
Trodd, who has no fixed address and also used the names James Harland and Martin Ashbrook, was finally sentenced to six years and nine months at Lewes Crown Court on 16 April. The sentencing came after a lengthy Sussex Police probe, dubbed Operation Glasshouse, uncovered fraud offences dating from September 2022 to August 2023.
Trodd was wanted for over two years and only surrendered after a Crimewatch appeal aired his crimes.
Exploiting Trust, Ruining Lives
Police revealed Trodd’s chilling method: he charmed victims by pretending to be a tenant or customer, then wormed his way into their bank accounts. He stole credit cards, made dodgy money transfers, hired vehicles, and opened fraudulent bank accounts — plunging many victims into financial chaos.
Detective Sergeant Paul Elrick said: “This was a protracted and complex investigation into James Trodd, a serial fraudster, who preyed on the elderly and vulnerable.”
“My heartfelt thanks go to the victims, witnesses, Enable, Nationwide, and the banks involved. The police will always work with banks to target those who prey on elderly victims to fund their own greedy lifestyle.”
Judge Brands Crimes ‘Worst Example of Fraud’
The judge slammed Trodd’s actions as “the worst example of fraud he had seen.” Trodd was convicted on 17 counts of fraud by representation — a major win for Sussex Police battling financial predators.
If you suspect fraud or financial abuse, get help now from Action Fraud or your local police force.
