Salesman spun "web of lies" to feed gambling addiction in car dealership fraud - but spared jail
A salesman stole money from the car dealership where he worked to feed his gambling habit, a court has heard.
James Ratcliffe, 35 of Island Close, Hayling Island, pleaded guilty to fraud to the tune of £13,015 from Hendy Honda in Anchorage Road, Portsmouth.
Between September 2023 and February 2024, Ratcliffe spun what the judge called a "web of lies", selling cars for part exchange and discounted prices - but pocketing the difference.
The court heard how he made it look like the customer had still paid in full with adjusted bank transfers - defrauding the money after spiralling in a gambling addiction, described by his solicitor as "trying to reclaim big losses".
After being pulled up by Hendy bosses, Ratcliffe admitted his dealings, was suspended from work and later resigned. He pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position in November 2025.
Since the offence, his parents have taken full control of his finances - and the court was told they were prepared to pay any compensation on his behalf.
District Judge David Robinson KC said: "Over a period of five to six months, you acted in complete breach of trust. There was a series of fraudulent events with a degree of planning and sophistication, moving money to and fro. There was a web of lies in the breach of this trust.
"Your gambling habit does not excuse what you did, but you were gripped by it - stealing to fuel that habit.
"But you made full admissions to the police and your employer; you have taken positive steps to deal with your gambling, you have been re-employed in a similar job and have parents willing to settle your debts."
Ratcliffe was given a suspended sentence of six months in custody, subject to 120 hours of community service. He must pay £11,948.67 in compensation, a surcharge of £154 and £85 in costs.
Free, confidential gambling addiction support is available 24/7 through the National Gambling Helpline at 0808 8020 133.