'Utterly shameful' man charged 'vulnerable' woman hundreds for fake roof repairs - Leicestershire Live

William Patrick Wallace was described by police as a 'prolific offender'

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A man preyed on a “vulnerable” woman by charging her for fake repair work on her home. William Patrick Wallace had claimed the roof was damaged and charged her hundreds of pounds for work that wasn't required.

Wallace, previously of Greenacres, Leicester, had targeted the woman alongside a male “associate”. The pair claimed the supposed damage to her roof could be repaired for £250 before upping it to £490 following an alleged inspection.

The woman, who was described as "vulnerable" by police, handed over the money. A short time later, Wallace and the associate left in a white van without even attempting to carry out the work.

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The incident came to light after the woman, who lived in Corby, Northamptonshire, reported the incident to a family member. It was then reported to police who launched an investigation.

Wallace was arrested and subsequently charged with fraud by false representation. After pleading guilty to the offence at Northampton Crown Court in July, he returned to the same court last month (Friday, September 20) where he was jailed for 10 months.

Lead investigator Police Constable Brad Wilson said: “William Wallace is a prolific offender who has been convicted of similar crimes before and it is clear to see that he has not learnt his lesson. Preying on vulnerable people is utterly shameful and I hope Wallace realises that making money in this way is as far away from making an honourable living as it is possible to get.

“If you have been a victim of this kind of offence, please contact us. People like William Wallace are manipulative and well-versed in their criminal craft so do not feel ashamed or embarrassed if you fall foul of such deception.”

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