A courier fraud gang who preyed on elderly victims nationwide have been jailed following a detailed investigation by Dorset Police. Danny Ngo, 28, and Dervill Rickman, 27, both from London, were sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on 31 May 2024 after admitting to conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation.
Ngo received a four-year prison sentence, while Rickman was sentenced to 32 months. A third defendant, Raquel Viamonte, 24, also from London, will be sentenced at the same court on 12 July 2024.
The Courier Fraud Scam Unveiled
The charges relate to a series of courier fraud offences between 21 April 2020 and 5 June 2020, affecting eleven victims. The scam began with the fraudsters calling their victims, claiming issues with internet connectivity and promising compensation. These elderly and vulnerable victims were instructed to download an application that allowed the fraudsters remote access to their home computers.
Once access was gained, the fraudsters deceived the victims into believing they had received excessive compensation. The victims were then persuaded to withdraw cash from their banks. The money was either collected by a courier or sent to an address specified by the fraudsters.
Investigation and Arrests
The matter first came to the attention of Dorset Police on 5 May 2020. Investigations revealed that three Dorset residents had paid over £18,000 to the fraudsters. Additional victims were found in Devon, Cornwall, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, Bedfordshire, and Nottinghamshire, with total losses exceeding £67,000.
Following thorough inquiries, a series of warrants were executed in London on 3 June 2020, resulting in the arrests of Ngo and Rickman. They were initially released under investigation, and subsequent evidence led to Viamonte’s interview and eventual charges for all three.
Holding the Fraudsters Accountable
Detective Constable Tom Norman of BCP CID, highlighted the significance of the conspiracy to defraud elderly and vulnerable victims across the country. He stressed the extensive investigation led by Dorset Police, which was crucial in compiling evidence and holding the fraudsters accountable. Norman affirmed the commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from fraud and taking robust action against those committing such offences.
The fraud gang’s apprehension and impending sentencing highlight the ongoing efforts to combat fraud and protect the vulnerable. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fraud awareness and prevention. By remaining alert and informed, we can collectively reduce the risk of falling victim to such crimes and ensure that fraudsters are brought to justice.
Raising Fraud Awareness
This case underscores the critical need for heightened fraud awareness and prevention, particularly for elderly and vulnerable individuals. Fraudsters often target those who may not be as familiar with modern technology, making them susceptible to sophisticated scams.
To protect yourself and your loved ones from similar schemes, it’s vital to remain vigilant. Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, especially those asking for personal information or offering compensation for supposed issues. Always verify the identity of the caller and consult with a trusted individual before taking any action.
Enhancing Fraud Prevention
- Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about common scams, like courier fraud, and share this knowledge with family and friends.
- Verify Before Acting: Always verify the legitimacy of any request for money or personal information.
- Use Trusted Channels: Only use official contact details to reach out to companies or services.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud, report it immediately to the police or relevant authorities.
The Dorset Police’s diligent investigation into the courier fraud gang has been commendable, highlighting their commitment to protecting vulnerable victims. Their efforts in compiling evidence and arresting the fraudsters are noteworthy. However, the sentences handed down—four years for Danny Ngo and 32 months for Dervill Rickman—seem lenient compared to the significant financial and emotional damage inflicted on the elderly victims. These sentences may not fully reflect the severity of the crime or serve as a strong enough deterrent to future fraudsters. The impact on the victims warrants stricter penalties for such destructive offences.
