A rogue roofer from East Lancashire who scammed older residents out of thousands of pounds has been jailed, following a Trading Standards probe.
Benjamin Lee Molloy, from Colne, has been jailed for 12 months and handed a five-year Company Director Disqualification Order and a three-year Criminal Behaviour Order, prohibiting him from conducting or canvassing home improvements work.
Molloy, 39, of Birtwistle Avenue, Colne, pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Preston Crown Court for offences under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.
This prosecution followed an investigation into consumer complaints received by Lancashire County Council's Trading Standards Service.
Trading Standards found Molloy, who was the sole company director of JR Roofing & Driveway Specialists Limited, targeted older victims aged 69 to 74, carrying out poor, unnecessary work disguised as genuine repairs before demanding payment. One victim was misled with false claims about dangerous defects, while another faced escalating demands for extra jobs and payments, only to be left with a leaking roof. Residents were left worse off than before Molloy began the work – and faced further repair bills.
A surveyor instructed by Trading Standards confirmed Molloy’s work showed a clear lack of skill and knowledge, and that there were no structural defects in the properties. One woman who paid £17,450 was told the work was unnecessary and worthless, while another man’s repairs were valued at just £450 – despite paying ten times that amount.
Speaking after the case, County Councillor Joshua Roberts, cabinet member for Rural Affairs, Environment and Communities at Lancashire County Council, said:
“Rogue traders cause huge mental anguish to their victims and families, and we’re pleased that justice has been served.
"Molloy preyed on older, vulnerable residents and thought he could get away with it – but thanks to the efforts of Lancashire Trading Standards, he’s now behind bars.
"This prosecution sends a clear signal that we won’t tolerate rogue traders and scammers in Lancashire, and we’ll do everything we can to stop them.”
To report a rogue trader, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133. For trusted local businesses, visit Lancashire’s Safe Trader Scheme at www.safetrader.org.uk
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