Fraudster jailed for 12 years after scamming £2m in watches and jewellery from victims

James Charles, 49, has been jailed for 12 years after admitting fraudulent trading in a scheme that took £2 million in watches, jewellery and precious metals from victims. He used sham businesses and the name James Goatley to pose as a legitimate dealer, promising to sell or repair valuables and return the proceeds, often minus a commission.

The scheme ran from August 2022 to 2024 and affected 31 people. Charles used online advertising and polished websites to build trust, then met clients in rented offices or their homes; many received little or none of the money promised. He continued offending through a new company after his first arrest in February 2024, and was arrested again in August. He may serve up to half his sentence before release on licence and is barred from being a company director for ten years after release.