A vile Archibald Brown defrauded a vulnerable pensioner in Erskine of £3,500. The court has ordered him to repay the full amount.
Archibald Brown tricked Margaret McPherson’s mum, saying he would install a wet room. Betty McPherson lived in Erskine. Brown took money for materials but never came back to do the job.
Brown appeared in court and admitted to defrauding two parties. He took £3,500 from Betty McPherson and £2,000 from a couple in Blantyre. Brown claimed drug debts forced his actions.
He faced another charge for allegedly taking money from a Catrine woman, but the court did not pursue this charge.
Sheriff McCartney ordered Brown to repay Ms. McPherson. Her daughter Margaret and son David were happy and spoke after the court hearing. Margaret said the family finally felt closure.
Margaret hired Brown after her mother fell, needing help after the accident. Neighbors recommended Brown’s work. Her mum broke her knee and was hospitalized.
After her release, they installed a stairlift, but showering proved difficult. So, they decided to get a wet room to make things easier for her.
Brown showed them samples, and the initial quote was £4,500. He needed £3,500 upfront for materials, claiming he had no account at the supplier.
But he never showed up to do the job and gave them many excuses. Margaret felt relieved it was over.
David said their mum was stressed and called it a good outcome. They were glad to get the money back, stating it was about the principle that the conman took advantage of the elderly woman.
Brown was hired for work in Blantyre and got £2,000 but did nothing for the Boyce family. Luckily, the bank refunded them.
Brown received money from Ms. McPherson for supplies but failed to do the contracted job. The bank could not reverse her transaction.
Brown’s lawyer said he was ashamed, using drugs at the time and struggling financially, owing drug dealers money.
Sheriff McCartney criticized Brown’s actions, saying the court viewed it seriously. He avoided jail due to the alternative punishment.
Brown must do 280 hours of community service and repay Ms. McPherson within six months. He will be supervised for nine months. Brown is from Chapel Crescent.
