Mum put non-existent computers for sale on eBay and pocketed the cash

A MOTHER put hi-tech computers which did not exist for sale on eBay and then pocketed the cash, Plymouth magistrates heard.

Hayley Wells, aged 26, tried to raise cash by selling iPads over the internet auction website but never sent the customers any machines.

Wells, of Shell Close, Leigham, admitted two counts of fraud by false representation on September 13 and 24 last year.

Sandra Walsingham, for the Crown Prosecution Service, said Wells advertised an iPad for sale on eBay and a man transferred £425 for it into her account.

Wells sent the buyer a message saying the iPad was on its way, but it never arrived. EBay’s history was investigated and it was found that £365 was paid to Wells for another iPad.

Paul Brookman, for Wells, said she had just split up from a long-term partner, moved into a new rented home and needed money for work on the property.

He said that she left her personal details with the buyers adding: “It is difficult to see how she ever thought that she was going to get away with it.”

Mr Brookman said that she pleaded guilty immediately to what was her first offence.

She was given a conditional discharge for two years and ordered to pay full compensation for the amount she received.

This is Plymouth