Family facing jail in £20m credit scam

Date published: 14 January 2013


AN Oldham family ran a multi-million scam by hijacking the identities of high-profile business bosses to defraud stores.

Brothers Kevin (47) and Daniel Pomeroy (25) pretended to be executives from McDonald’s and Greggs to con companies, while Kevin’s 39-year-old wife Julie helped to launder the cash.

Well-known electronics firms fell for the identity fraud, which netted hundreds of items over two-and-a-half years.

The Pomeroys and their accomplice James Chapman used the names of bosses of the food companies to con firms including Samsung, Argos, Sanyo, Fujitsu, Sony, Marks and Spencer, Electrolux, Dyson, Staples, HMV, Cannon, Jessops, John Lewis and Smeg into sending them electricals on credit.

They were delivered to addresses across Manchester but not paid for. Drinks companies were also targeted.

James Rae, prosecuting, told Manchester Crown Court Kevin Pomeroy “lavishly furnished” his £350,000 home, while his wife paid the mortgage in cash. The couple drove expensive cars and discussed buying a Spanish apartment.

Each member of the gang faces jail after admitting fraud.

Kevin Pomeroy, of Stamford Drive, Failsworth and James Chapman (22), of Sycamore Avenue, Chadderton, admitted two charges of conspiracy to commit fraud.

Daniel Pomeroy, of Brierley Avenue, Failsworth, admits one charge relating to the Greggs fraud.

The crimes targeted £20m worth of goods and successfully acquired iems worth £2.7m.

Kevin and Julie Pomeroy - granted bail -have also admitted money laundering charges. Kevin Pomeroy is claimed to be the main architect of the crimes, with other members paid for their help. Pomeroy denies developing the plan.

The defendants return to court on January 22.