A Swindon man previously found guilty of renting out homes he did not own on Facebook marketplace has reappeared in court charged again with fraud.

David Russell, of Fleet Street in Swindon, has been charged with fraud by false representation after scamming renters of their money.

Swindon Crown Court heard how between April 1, 2023 and June 18, 2024, Russell reportedly “dishonestly made a false representation, namely receiving deposits and rent for property he did not own or manage, intending to make financial gain for himself.”

Despite having previously appealed the conviction, the 36-year-old appeared in court over video link on Tuesday, November 12, withdrew his appeal and accepted a guilty plea.

However, the sentencing was unable to go ahead as his psychiatric report had not yet been finalised.

Referencing Russell's previous crime in 2022 which saw him scam Facebook marketplace users out of their rent, the judge said: “The defendant is an intelligent man who frequently offends.

“He told me two years ago when I last sentenced him that he had understood and seen the light, and yet his letter he has written to me this time mirrors that."

“This case has been ongoing for quite some time but I’m prepared to give one final adjournment, for the psychiatric report to be finalised."

The defendant also asked to be arraigned for a new stalking matter which he pleaded guilty to, and which will be dealt with at the same time as the fraud charge.

Russell’s sentencing has now been adjourned until Friday, December 20, and he will remain remanded in custody until then.

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