A serial fraudster who masqueraded as a legitimate builder has been jailed after systematically cheating homeowners across multiple counties out of nearly £200,000. Dean Mark Williams, 47, operated a sophisticated scam that targeted vulnerable residents, leaving a trail of financial ruin and botched home improvements in his wake.
Preying on the Vulnerable
Williams's most heartless crime involved pursuing a woman for payment while she was arranging her father's funeral. The victim had hired Williams to complete work her father had commissioned before his sudden death. Instead of showing compassion, the builder harassed the grieving daughter for money, demonstrating the ruthless nature of his operations.
A Pattern of Deception
Investigators uncovered that Williams operated under multiple company names including D Williams Building and Maintenance, D Williams Building and Roofing, and D Williams Plastering and Rendering. His criminal activities spanned several areas:
- Accepting substantial deposits for work that was never started or completed
- Using poor quality materials while charging premium prices
- Creating fake paperwork and providing false addresses
- Targeting elderly and vulnerable homeowners
Justice Served at Oxford Crown Court
Williams, formerly of Bicester, Oxfordshire, was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison at Oxford Crown Court after pleading guilty to multiple fraud charges. The court heard how his victims were left with substandard work that required complete redoing by legitimate tradespeople, often costing thousands more to rectify.
Police Warning to Homeowners
Investigating officer Detective Constable Chris Sansom of Thames Valley Police issued a stern warning to homeowners following the sentencing: "This case highlights the importance of thoroughly vetting any tradesperson before engaging their services. Always check references, verify credentials, and be wary of those demanding large upfront payments."
The police investigation revealed that Williams had been operating his fraudulent schemes across Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, and Warwickshire, with victims coming forward from multiple towns and villages.
Protecting Yourself from Rogue Traders
Consumer protection experts recommend homeowners take these essential precautions:
- Obtain multiple quotes for significant work
- Check for membership in recognized trade associations
- Ask for references and follow up on them
- Avoid paying large deposits before work commences
- Use trusted trader schemes and read online reviews carefully
Williams's sentencing serves as a warning to other rogue traders while providing some closure to the numerous families whose lives and homes were damaged by his criminal activities.
