Welshpool three jailed over net mobile phone scam

People from across the country were conned by a scam internet mobile phone selling ring based in Mid Wales, a court heard.

A gang from Welshpool used the town library's computers to list iPhones and other mobiles for sale on internet auction sites.

But despite taking the money – up to a £1,000 in some cases – the items were never sent out to buyers, Mold Crown Court heard .

The gang was led by Leigh Hinchcliffe, 21, of Old Ford, Welshpool, who was jailed for 18 months after admitting fraud, and Jake Evans, 21, of New Street, Welshpool, who was jailed for nine months for admitting the same charge.

Four others admitted making false representations to members of the public. John McDonald, 33, of Foundry Lane, Welshpool, was given five months.

Stephen McDonald, 27, of Gallowtree Rise in Welshpool, Alexander Woodfine, 28, of Bron y Buckley, Welshpool, and William Owen, 18, of Gallowtree Rise, Welshpool, each received 24-week prison sentences, suspended for 12 months.

Judge Niclas Parry, sitting at Mold Crown Court said: "It is a fraud of the modern age. People were duped into paying money into the ether. It could affect people's confidence in internet sales which is a vital part of 21st century economy."

Mr Peter Moss, prosecuting, said Hinchcliffe and Evans would list items for sale on Loot, Gum Tree and Bargain Pages websites, ordering people to pay the money into the other gang members' bank accounts.

"It is questionable whether the phones ever existed, certainly none were delivered," said Mr Moss.

When questioned about their bargain prices they claimed to be selling stock off cheap after their shop in Cardiff, which did not exist, closed down.