AYLESBURY, UK – Miles Cassidy, former director of the now-dissolved Watford Roofing Company and UPVC Limited, has been sentenced to 15 months and two weeks in prison after defrauding a homeowner out of £17,000. The conviction follows a Trading Standards investigation into the company’s deceptive practices.
Cassidy, whose company was based in Middle Way, Watford, appeared at Aylesbury Crown Court on Wednesday, May 14. In addition to the prison term, he has been disqualified from holding any company directorship for six years.
The court heard how Cassidy and another man were approached by a homeowner in Prestwood, Buckinghamshire in November 2021 after the victim received a business flyer. Roof work was agreed upon, with an initial contract for £6,450 and an £800 deposit paid immediately.
On November 22, the homeowner paid an additional £3,750 and was charged again that day for £6,450. Cassidy claimed there were issues with the card reader, but the victim later discovered an unauthorised withdrawal of £6,000 from his account.
Between November 19 and 23, a total of £17,000 was paid to Cassidy’s accounts, with funds quickly transferred to other accounts. When the quality of the roofing work was questioned, another contractor found multiple defects, which required £460 in remedial work.
The prosecution argued that Cassidy’s company was engaged in fraudulent trading. Cassidy was directly involved in misrepresentations, unauthorised withdrawals, and laundering the proceeds.
Buckinghamshire Council described Cassidy as a “con-man” who “took advantage of a vulnerable Bucks pensioner.”
The jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict within 90 minutes.
Judge HHJ Keeley commended the efforts of the Buckinghamshire and Surrey Trading Standards teams, stating:
“These cases are really difficult to investigate and prosecute. I thank you for your hard work.”
Cassidy’s conviction marks a strong stance by authorities against rogue traders exploiting elderly or vulnerable homeowners under the guise of professional services.
