Cowboy Builder Jailed for Ripping Off Pensioners
A dodgy builder has been locked up for four years after conning vulnerable pensioners out of thousands with fake roof repairs.
Mark Kempster’s Shocking Scam
Mark Kempster, 50, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on March 11. He admitted six counts of fraud by false representation after targeting elderly women across Hampshire.
Between 2013 and 2015, Kempster repeatedly visited a 61-year-old woman in southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton, charging her an eye-watering £15,000 for supposed roof tile replacements. But the work was grossly overcharged and often unnecessary.
Preying on the Elderly
- On February 17, 2015, Kempster convinced a 90-year-old lady in Andover to pay up front for roof repairs. He even drove her to a bank but fled when the manager grew suspicious.
- In May 2015, he charged an 82-year-old woman in Alresford £1,860 for repairs never done.
- In November 2015, an 84-year-old Gosport resident parted with £2,650 for incomplete roof work.
Police Strike Back
Detective Constable Paul Barry blasted: “Mark Kempster preyed on the elderly and vulnerable, ripping off substantial amounts. This type of crime is despicable. He showed no remorse and exploited their kindness.”
“Much of the work was unnecessary or left shoddy, with prices wildly inflated. Hampshire Constabulary will not hesitate to crack down on such offenders.”
A confiscation hearing under the Proceeds of Crime Act is set for July 18. Kempster’s sentence sends a clear warning to all con artists targeting our pensioners.
