By Andrew Bardsley
Louis Myers, a 26-year-old former footballer, has narrowly avoided imprisonment after defrauding victims of over £30,000 in a cryptocurrency scam. Appearing at Manchester Crown Court, Myers promised investors lucrative returns as part of a “get rich quick” scheme but instead pocketed the money for personal expenses, including designer clothes and nightlife.
The court heard that Myers deceived five individuals, with one victim losing as much as £15,000 and another £10,000. Previously playing for clubs like FC United of Manchester and Radcliffe Borough, Myers had positioned himself as a knowledgeable trader, claiming connections to well-known footballers.
Victims reported feeling embarrassed and distressed, especially after realizing they could not recover their investments. One victim stated, “I was embarrassed and ashamed I could be so stupid for falling for such a scam.” No formal contracts were signed, and the transactions took place informally over five months in late 2021 and early 2022.
Judge Timothy Smith expressed concern over the impact of Myers’ actions on his victims, noting that they had placed their trust in him. He described the scheme as “selfish and self-serving.”
While Myers faced serious charges, the judge opted for a suspended sentence after considering the potential impact on the ten employees of his company, Blue Flame Fire Engineering. Myers received a 16-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, along with 200 hours of community service and 20 rehabilitation days.
He was warned by the judge that any further issues could lead to a reconsideration of his sentence, stating, “You are very, very close to being sent to prison immediately for these offences.”
