Rogue trader jailed for fraud over kitchen

Central Bedfordshire Council’s Trading Standards team has taken action against a rogue trader.

Peter Dennis English, 39, of Chesford Road, Stopsley, Luton, trading as PDE Kitchens pleaded guilty to fraud on August 1.

He was imprisoned for six weeks, suspended for 12 months, ordered to observe a curfew between 7pm and 7am, having to wear an electronic tag for the curfew period. In addition, the court directed him to pay costs of £3,047.

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Luton Magistrates Court heard how English was contacted by Mr and Mrs Hundal, both school teachers from Eaton Bray, about installing a new kitchen in their home. English gave the price to supply and install the kitchen of £15,312, which they paid up front in March 2011.

Following ongoing delays, including English giving information about his own and others’ health which purportedly prevented him going on site, the council’s Trading Standards team were called in during August 2012. The team were able to establish that the couple’s kitchen had never been ordered.

The couple, speaking after the sentencing, said: “We believe this judgement will have an impact on Mr English and sends a powerful message to dishonest traders.”

Cllr Ian Dalgarno, Deputy Executive Member for Sustainable Communities – Services, said: “Rogue traders and other door step criminals should know by now that if they try to ply their trade in Central Bedfordshire they will be investigated and brought to account by our officers.

If you have any information about rogue trader or door step crime activity please call the dedicated hotline on 08454 04 05 06.