A fraudster involved in a gang’s attempt to defraud the government of £1.1 million has received a suspended sentence.
Louis Mothersdale, 27, submitted fraudulent claims through HMRC’s self-assessment system, as revealed in Newcastle Crown Court. Along with his accomplices, he managed to secure nearly £400,000 before the scam was uncovered.
Mothersdale, from Brockley Whins near South Shields, was sentenced to 14 months, suspended for two years, after admitting to tax fraud. He must also complete 30 days of rehabilitation and pay a £1,000 fine plus £1,447 in prosecution costs.
Between September 2017 and May 2018, Mothersdale filed seven claims with false details regarding his income and employer. These claims totaled approximately £58,000, resulting in him receiving around £23,400, which was quickly transferred or withdrawn.
Prosecutor Angus MacDonald noted that the gang specifically targeted HMRC in their scheme. Although they aimed for £1.1 million, they managed to claim about £394,000 before authorities intervened.
In his defense, Andrew Epsley mentioned that someone else had filled out the fraudulent forms, claiming that Mothersdale kept only half of the funds while the remainder was funneled to the criminal organization.