A man accused of being a romance fraudster has denied 25 counts of fraud by false representation in a case where seven women were allegedly conned out of nearly £657,000 over a 15-year period. Marc Cole-Jones, aged 52, appeared at Chester Crown Court yesterday, dressed in a black wax jacket and black crew neck sweater, and pleaded not guilty as each charge was read to him.
Details of the Alleged Scam
The prosecution claims that Cole-Jones, from Telford, Shropshire, targeted seven different women between 2009 and 2024, persuading them to hand over sums of up to £158,000. One alleged victim, Kelly Wright, is said to have provided 15 different amounts totalling £489,000, including individual payments of £158,000 and £100,000.
False Business Ventures and Emotional Manipulation
According to the charges, Cole-Jones falsely portrayed himself as a successful businessman to Ms. Wright, convincing her to invest £100,000 in a hyperfund. He also allegedly sold a canal boat she invested in without her knowledge, making a £75,000 profit. Additionally, she handed over £57,000 for machinery for an aesthetic clinic he claimed to be investing in.
Further allegations include Cole-Jones receiving £158,000 from Ms. Wright under the pretence of a large tax bill and £10,000 for private heart surgery. Other frauds involved the buying and selling of vehicles, such as a campervan, and claims of needing £20,000 to pay off a debt due to threats of violence and £10,000 to settle blackmail by an ex-partner.
Court Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Judge Patrick Thompson has set a trial date for June 28, 2027, with a pre-trial preparation hearing scheduled for June 1 next year. Cole-Jones was granted conditional bail, with the stipulation that he does not contact any of the seven complainants involved in the case.
The case highlights the severe impact of romance scams, where emotional manipulation is used to exploit victims financially over extended periods. Authorities continue to investigate such frauds, urging the public to remain vigilant against similar schemes.
