Trusted employee at property firm stole over £100,000

Friday 17th February 2012

A former worker for a firm of surveyors that is an affiliate member of the Association of Bridging Professionals stole over £100,000 from his employers.  

Gavin Sutton pleaded guilty at Manchester city magistrates court to defrauding Mathews and Goodman LLP of £102,160. He had dipped into clients’ accounts on 32 occasions between March 2010 and March 2011.

Staff discovered the money was missing when Sutton, who had been a trusted employee, left after nearly three years’ employment.

Philip Lythgoe, defending, said the offences were committed when Sutton was “bending under the stress and strain of debt”.

He said: “He deeply regrets his actions and has expressed immense remorse.”

Sutton, said to have blown the money on horses and clothes and now to be broke, was granted bail until March 8 when he will appear at Manchester Crown Court for sentence.

Matthews and Goodman, who are experienced property consultants, said their business had not suffered because of the thefts.