By David Meikle
Paul McEnhill, 27, is facing a potential jail sentence after admitting to a £25,000 banking scam that targeted an elderly couple. Victims Thomas Docherty, 73, and Margaret Baillie, 82, were deceived into transferring thousands of pounds following a call from a man posing as a Virgin Money official.
Docherty received a call from someone claiming to be Malcolm, the head of Virgin Money’s CID department. The scammer falsely informed Docherty that £5,000 had been stolen from his account and instructed him to make a transaction to help identify the thief. The caller insisted Docherty keep the conversation secret and provided a phone number to confirm his identity.
Under the guise of protecting their finances, the scammer pressured Docherty into transferring £4,900, claiming it was for his granddaughter. He was later told that Baillie’s account had also been compromised, leading him to transfer an additional £9,500.
Suspicious bank staff alerted the police in October 2022 as Docherty attempted to complete the transactions. During the ordeal, the scammer continued to pressure Docherty while on the phone, insisting that Baillie must act quickly due to her poor health.
Ultimately, bank personnel recognized Docherty and halted the transfer, notifying authorities. McEnhill was traced through his own bank details used in one of the transactions, and £9,500 has since been returned to Docherty.
During a recent hearing at Hamilton Sheriff Court, Sheriff John Speir noted the emotional toll on the elderly victims, stating, “Given their age, this must have been a very distressing experience.” McEnhill’s sentencing has been deferred until November, with all options, including imprisonment, remaining on the table.
Prosecutors also accepted a not guilty plea from McEnhill’s former partner, Caitlin Fordyce, 25. Virgin Money declined to comment on the case.