These rogue traders should be locked away for at least 20 year nothing but lowlife scumrogue traders man cons women out of 18.000 pounds +6 In June 2026, rogue traders Charlie Lee and James Cunningham were convicted after being caught on a covert police camera pressuring an 83-year-old vulnerable woman into writing a cheque for £18,000 for fictitious roof repairs.The incident was part of a larger doorstep crime ring that targeted 11 vulnerable householders across Nottinghamshire, Warwickshire, and Coventry, collectively defrauding them of approximately £880,000.🚨 Key Details of the CaseThe Victims: The main victim featured in the police footage was an 83-year-old woman from Aspley, Nottingham. Over five months, the conmen swindled more than £30,000 from her, culminating in the £18,000 cheque. Other victims included a 97-year-old woman who was defrauded of £186,000.The Tactics: Posing as professional roofers, the men used intimidation and relentless high-pressure tactics. They ordered the victim to write cheques out to different names to launder the money and instructed her to tell her bank she was "happy" if they called to verify the funds.The Reality: Independent structural investigations of the properties later revealed that no legitimate work had been done; at most, a small amount of mortar had simply been smeared along the ridge tiles.The Outcome: Nottinghamshire Police used a hidden camera in the victim's hallway to capture the fraud in real-time. Charlie Lee pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation and the group was handed prison sentences.🛡️ How to Protect Yourself and Relatives from Doorstep FraudAccording to guidelines from Citizens Advice and UK police forces, you should adopt these habits to stay safe from rogue traders:Say No to Cold Callers: Never agree to have work done by someone who knocks on your door uninvited or claims they "just noticed a problem" with your roof or driveway.Take Your Time: Legitimate traders will always provide written quotes and allow a cooling-off period. Never make snap decisions under pressure.Never Go to the Bank: If a trader demands cash upfront, refuses a standard bank transfer, or asks to accompany you to a cashpoint, cut off contact immediately.Check Credentials: Always research local tradespeople through verified schemes like Buy With Confidence or official local trading standards apps.If you suspect you or a family member has been targeted, report the incident immediately to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service at 0808 223 1133 or contact the police. Beloud