The man accused of tricking his friends out of £50,000
Friends and business associates of Matthew Carroll say he deceived them over several years, leaving dozens claiming to have lost almost £50,000. A BBC investigation reports allegations that he used people’s personal details for credit searches, loans and bank accounts, while also making false claims about acting opportunities and serious illness; Carroll has not responded to the allegations.
The claims came to light in September 2023, when friends in a Sheffield flat found loan and creditor letters, including debts exceeding £16,000, and a bank card in someone else’s name. Seven people told the BBC their details had been used without their knowledge, and 12 say they provided personal information and deposits of up to £1,000 for a promised Broadway play that never took place. One friend says he put £2,500 into Carroll’s media business and later found more than 18 credit searches on his record.
- Friends allege Carroll left them nearly £50,000 out of pocket.
- Several say their personal details were used for credit searches or accounts.
- Deposits were collected for a Broadway play that never happened.
New here? Start with this
Matthew Carroll was a friend and business associate to the people who have made these allegations. They say they trusted him with personal details and money over a period of several years.
The claims involve several different situations, including credit searches, loans and bank accounts allegedly opened using other people’s details. Some people also say they paid deposits for a Broadway play or invested in Carroll’s media business; they say the play never went ahead.
The allegations came to light after friends found letters about loans and debts in a Sheffield flat in September 2023. Carroll has not responded to the allegations, which have not been established in court.