Blackpool Man Jailed for 28 Months in £25,000 Fraud Targeting Elderly
A Blackpool man has been sentenced to 28 months in prison for defrauding six victims – including one grieving a dying husband – out of a total of £25,000. Michael Coyle, 57, of Common Edge Road, pleaded guilty to fraud by false portrayal at Preston Crown Court on October 31st. He falsely claimed he was completing commissioned work, then pocketed money without delivering the promised services.
Coyle targeted victims from Oldham, bispham, Lytham, Blackpool, and North Wales, exploiting their trust for personal financial gain. One victim, quoted £9,000 for wall repairs, questioned the cost, asking Coyle, “what are the bricks made of, pure gold?” The case highlights a growing trend of predatory schemes aimed at vulnerable individuals, prompting Lancashire Police to issue warnings about door-to-door and courier fraud.
Victims described feeling betrayed, anxious, and distrustful following Coyle’s actions.Lancashire Police reported one victim stated Coyle knowingly targeted her while her husband was dying, taking advantage of her grief.
Recorder Clancy described Coyle’s offending as “calculated and shameful” during the sentencing.Detective Constable jim Hall of the force’s Serious and Organised Crime unit called Coyle’s behaviour “absolutely despicable,” adding, “In targeting his victims, he has preyed on mainly elderly or vulnerable people and exploited them for his own personal financial gain.”
Lancashire Police advise residents on protecting themselves from fraud on their website: https://www.lancashire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/door-to-door-courier-fraud/.
