A man described as one of the UK’s most prolific rogue traders has been found guilty in a major Bristol fraud conviction after defrauding dozens of customers out of £1.25 million through unfinished building projects.
Avon and Somerset Police Investigation Exposes £1.25m Fraud
Mark Killick, 56, from Paulton, Somerset, also known as Marc Cole and Mark Jenkins, was convicted of 37 counts of fraud at Bristol Crown Court. The Avon and Somerset Police investigation revealed that between 2020 and 2021, Killick accepted large deposits for home extensions and renovations that were either never started or left incomplete.
Decades-Long Criminal Record and Repeat Offences
This is Killick’s fourth Bristol fraud conviction since 2008, with police estimating losses from his victims at more than £1.25m. Trading Standards described him as one of the “most prolific rogue traders” ever encountered. His trial began in May 2025 and concluded in October after months of evidence from 46 witnesses.
Victims Left with Debt and Unfinished Homes
Homeowners across the West of England reported that Killick promised “dream extensions” before disappearing with their money. In one case, a woman paid £107,000 for work that was never completed. Another victim said he handed over £20,000 and received nothing in return. Many said Killick used “charm and charisma” to gain their trust before defrauding them.
Fraudster Lived Lavishly Amid Claims of Struggling Business
Investigators found that Killick spent victims’ money on luxury goods, including a £25,000 Rolex Submariner watch purchased shortly after securing a £50,000 Covid loan. He also stayed at high-end resorts, claiming they were “business trips.” Despite repeated excuses such as illness and staff shortages, the court heard that Killick continued to take on new clients while knowing his company was failing.
Police and Trading Standards Praise Victims’ Courage
Det Sgt Louise Sinclair from Avon and Somerset Police said the case showed “how one individual’s greed can devastate dozens of families.” Victims described severe stress, sleepless nights, and family breakdowns as a result of Killick’s fraud.
Killick will be sentenced in December, with the judge warning that a “lengthy custodial sentence is inevitable.”
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This story was first reported by BBC News. Read the full article here.
