Fraudsters Ripped Off Vulnerable Homeowners Across Surrey, Essex and London
Between February and September 2019, ruthless doorstep scammers preyed on elderly and vulnerable homeowners. They forced victims to pay huge sums for fake or shoddy repairs. The crooks claimed urgent work was needed, demanding deposits for cranes and scaffolding that never turned up.
Despite a long manhunt, their identities remained shadowy—until police smashed the money laundering ring behind the scenes. Leading the gang was 54-year-old Lee Cross from Romford. He ran dodgy firms like A-Z Repairs under fake names, funneling millions through business accounts with rapid transfers and large cash withdrawals.
Lee Cross and Crew Found Guilty at Guildford Crown Court
On 13 November 2025, Lee Cross and three accomplices were convicted of laundering over £500,000 linked to these doorstep scams. One victim was fleeced £8,000 for a bogus “up and over” scaffolding job. The crooks, using the alias “Andy Dorson” from A-Z Repairs, bombarded the victim with calls and emails. Voice and digital forensics proved “Dorson” was actually Cross.
Prosecutors presented evidence from seven households, covering 20 fraud and money laundering charges tied to these scams.
Jury Hands Down Guilty Verdict After Month-Long Trial
The 28-day trial, running from September 22 to November 13, ended with these verdicts:
- Lee Cross, 54, Romford – Guilty on all major fraud and money laundering charges.
- Sorisa Richardson, 45, Romford – Guilty on one count.
- Zoe Hoskyn, 40, Hornchurch – Guilty on five counts.
- Pauline Walker, 70, Romford – Guilty on four counts, not guilty on one.
- Lewis Richardson, 25, Romford & Richard Griffiths, 40, Romford – Not guilty on all counts.
Another suspect, Jason Walker, 35 from Blackburn, skipped the first hearing and faces separate proceedings. Lee Cross remains behind bars, awaiting sentencing in February.
Officials Promise Tougher Crackdown on Doorstep Fraud
“Doorstep fraudsters target the most vulnerable in our communities. These prosecutions send a clear message, and we will continue to go after anyone profiting from such crimes and protect residents,” said Kevin Deanus, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service Cabinet Member.
“Thanks to the dedicated Trading Standards team, our strong partnerships have led to this successful prosecution.”
Stay Sharp: How to Avoid Doorstep Scams
- Don’t be pressured by unexpected callers.
- Never agree to work on the spot.
- If you accept a job, get written notice of your 14-day cooling-off right.
- Always request multiple quotes before deciding.
- Never pay cash on the doorstep.
