Loan shark taxi driver avoids jail but has to foot £10,000 bill Leslie Ramroop was ordered to pay £1,070 compensation and £5,000 towards prosecution costs after his conviction
A taxi driver caught moonlighting as an illegal loan shark has been fined and ordered to pay costs amounting to almost £10,000.
Leslie Ramroop, 69, was prosecuted by Cardiff Council’s Trading Standards department after they were tipped off he was lending money in Bridgend without being authorised.
He was charged and appeared at Newport Crown Court for sentencing earlier this week after a two year investigation by officers.
Ramroop admitted five charges and was fined a total of £3,500. He was also ordered to pay £1,070 in compensation and £5,000 in costs.
The defendant was told he must pay the court within three months or face three months in prison in default.
One of his victims said he borrowed £3,000 over a number of years but the interest charges imposed by Ramroop added £900 on top of that.
He said Ramroop charged £50 interest on each £100 loaned.
The man used to go and collect the money from Ramroop at a number of locations across Bridgend. He was always handed cash.
Asked why he used Ramroop he said it wasn’t to live a life of luxury, just help with the essentials of daily life.
“It was simple and easy and no questions asked. It was an easy way to get money,” he said.
“I wouldn’t use a loan shark again. Going back to where I was then and where I am now, then I needed help.
“It’s easy to say don’t, but some people haven’t got a choice,” he added.
The victim said he was disappointed with the sentence handed to Ramroop.
A Spokesman for the Wales Illegal lending Unit, said: “Borrowing money from loan sharks is the worst possible option and the unit asks anyone who believes a friend, relative or neighbour is borrowing money from a loan shark to call 0300 123 3311.
“All Information given is investigated with a view to prosecute while providing help and support to the victims affected.”
Bridgend Council said they could not confirm if Ramroop was still working as a taxi driver in the area but assured people there is a “robust system” in place.
A Bridgend County Borough Council spokesperson said: “While we cannot comment on individual cases, the council has a robust system in place with regards to the licensing of taxi drivers and vehicles, and all matters of concern go before the licensing committee so that appropriate action can be taken.”
source:
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales ... an-8187583
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