Despicable Blackpool Builder Jailed 28 Months for Fraud Scams

Blackpool builder fraud, bogus trader jailed, Patrick Coyle sentenced, scam victims elderly vulnerable, Lancashire crime news.
A bogus builder from Blackpool has been jailed for 28 months after conning vulnerable victims out of thousands of pounds. Patrick Coyle, 57, targeted mainly elderly and vulnerable people, promising repairs that were never done. He admitted six counts of fraud by false representation at Preston Crown Court.
Recorder Fiona Clancy called his actions calculated and shameful. Det Con Jim Hall from Lancashire's Serious and Organised Crime Unit described Coyle's behavior as despicable, preying on the vulnerable for personal gain.
One striking example: Coyle quoted £9,000 for wall repairs and was sarcastically asked if the bricks were made of gold. In total, he defrauded six victims from areas like Bispham, Lytham, Blackpool, Oldham, and North Wales, totaling £25,000.
Victims felt betrayed, anxious, and distrustful. One said Coyle exploited her during her husband's terminal illness.
This story highlights the dangers of bogus traders and the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from scams.