A used car dealer who ripped off customers while acting as a broker has been jailed.
Bournemouth Crown Court heard how Eric Rowan’s “dishonest dealings” at Mondial Motors in Poole between March 2006 and February 2007 had involved up to £125,000 and funded a lifestyle which encompassed flights, golf club membership and a penthouse apartment.
Trading under the name David Black, Rowan offered to sell prestige cars for a commission.
His victims, who were unaware he’d previously been jailed for fraud and conspiracy to steal cars, either received no money or less than the agreed sum.
Some cars were sold on eBay for less than they were worth, with Rowan often handing over vehicles at Poole train station for cash.
Then began the long process of avoiding paying out to their former owners.
Rowan admitted 20 charges of theft and was sentenced to 40 months prison.
His son, Sean, also admitted two charges of theft and received a 12 month community penalty.