A rogue trader who lied to customers and took thousands of pounds for windows and doors that he never ordered has been sentenced, following a successful prosecution by Cornwall Council.

On Friday, November 29 at Truro Crown Court, Adam Taylor of Wendron, Helston, was sentenced for three offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

The sentencing followed an earlier trial where Taylor, aged 36, was found guilty on three counts relating to misleading statements made about purchasing windows and doors.

Taylor had agreed to install windows and doors at homes of two separate customers. He took deposits for the combined value of £4,260 and told his clients he would use the money to place orders with specialist suppliers.

Following a lengthy delay, customers asked Taylor for updates. He gave a raft of excuses and maintained that the goods had been ordered.

As the delays continued, the customers grew more frustrated and eventually contacted the suppliers directly. In both cases they were told that Taylor had not placed the orders.

Trading Standards investigated the matter and found no orders had been placed for the windows and doors. After being interviewed, Taylor was subsequently summonsed for the offences. During the two years he was being investigated, Taylor did not pay a single penny back to his victims.

Sentencing, Judge Simon Carr said Taylor’s behaviour was the highest form of fraud, taking from innocent consumers to pay his debts. He said Taylor had no intent of providing materials and that he had complete contempt for the victims.

Taylor was ordered to pay £4,587 to his victims. He was also fined £2,250 and ordered to pay costs of £4,000.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, the portfolio holder responsible for Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said: “Residents should be able to trust local traders to honour their contracts and provide the services they pay for. We all know that sometimes things can go wrong, but it’s important that businesses and tradespeople are upfront and honest with their customers.“As always, I would urge people to seek out approved traders from the Trading Standards Buy With Confidence approved trader scheme.”