The wife of a former Conservative councillor has been sentenced to three years and four months in prison after being convicted of a £1.2 million fraud. Sarah Booth, 50, orchestrated an elaborate scheme to siphon money from unsuspecting victims, leaving a trail of financial ruin in her wake.
The Shocking Scheme
Booth, who ran a lettings agency, deceived clients by diverting rental payments and deposits into her personal accounts. Over several years, she systematically defrauded landlords and tenants, using the funds to sustain a lavish lifestyle.
Justice Served
Judge Sarah Johnston described Booth's actions as "a gross breach of trust" during sentencing at Southwark Crown Court. The court heard how her victims suffered significant financial and emotional distress, with some losing their life savings.
Fallout and Reactions
Local residents expressed shock at the scale of the fraud, particularly given Booth's husband's former role as a Tory councillor. The case has raised questions about oversight in the property rental sector.
Detective Inspector Mark Forster, who led the investigation, stated: "This was a calculated and prolonged deception that caused immense harm. We're pleased to see justice served."
