Rogue builder jailed after defrauding Walsall residents out of more than £34,000
A rogue builder has been hit with a four-year prison sentence after defrauding residents in Walsall to the tune of tens of thousands of pounds.
Shane Steven Rollinson, who traded under various names including SN Brickwork, SSR Brickwork & Driveways and Brickwork Best, was convicted at Wolverhampton Crown Court of participating in a fraudulent business and multiple counts of perverting the course of justice following an investigation by Walsall Council’s Trading Standards team.
He was found to have defrauded two Walsall residents of more than £34,000.
Victims reported Rollinson initially appeared friendly and trustworthy, but once agreements were made he demanded large upfront payments for materials and labour that rarely materialised.
As works stalled, Rollinson repeatedly asked for more money, citing false reasons such as illness, family bereavements, car accidents and hospital visits.
When most of the money had been paid, communication became sporadic and the quality of any work completed was found to be poor and unsafe.
Independent surveyors valued the combined works at just £2,600, compared to the £34,000 paid by victims.
During the investigation, Rollinson attempted to contact witnesses to persuade them to withdraw their statements, leading to additional charges for perverting the course of justice.
Rollinson, of The Shrubbery, Dudley, was sentenced on October 21 to a total of four years and one month in jail for participating in a fraudulent business, perverting the course of justice (four counts) and failing to surrender to bail.
He was also handed a 10-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO), preventing him from advertising or carrying out any building work or arranging for others to do so on his behalf.
Councillor Adam Hicken, portfolio holder for enforcement and safe communities at Walsall Council, said: “Our Trading Standards officers work tirelessly to bring offenders like this to justice and protect consumers from being exploited. We’re grateful to those affected who came forward and helped ensure this conviction.
“This case shows how devastating the impact of rogue traders can be on residents — both financially and emotionally.”
Residents are advised to research tradespeople before hiring, get at least three quotes and avoid large upfront payments. People are also urged not to engage with cold callers and be cautious when using social media to find services.
Anyone concerned about potential rogue trading or unfair business practices can report it to Walsall Trading Standards via Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
