Weymouth fraudster jailed after conning victims out of £190,000

A repeat fraudster who targeted victims in Weymouth has been jailed for ten years. He conned people out of around £190,000 through fake caravan deals and investments. Police say the impact on victims has been devastating.

A serial fraudster who exploited victims in Weymouth has been jailed after conning people out of almost £190,000.

Simon John Turner, 49, was sentenced to 10 years in prison at Reading Crown Court after admitting multiple fraud offences.

The court heard Turner befriended a man in his 60s while living in a caravan park and convinced him to hand over more than £100,000 for a discounted caravan and a supposed property investment.

Neither deal existed, leaving the victim without a home and out of pocket.

He also targeted two other victims looking to buy a caravan, taking more than £76,000 for a purchase, decking and lighting that were never provided.

Investigators later found invoices had been falsified and no caravan had been secured.

Dorset Police said Turner used charm and trust to manipulate victims for financial gain.

One victim lost their life savings, while another has had to delay retirement due to the losses.

Officers described the crimes as callous and said the case highlights the lasting damage fraud can cause.

Turner had initially failed to appear for sentencing but was later arrested in Hampshire before being brought before the court.