Police in Telford have issued a warning to residents to remain on their guard against a 40-year-old man who has been given a three-year criminal anti-social behaviour order.

Gary Humphries, of Webb Crescent, Dawley, Telford, was handed the order (Crasbo) when he appeared at Telford Magistrates Court this week, for his fraudulent activities against elderly and vulnerable people. 

The order means Humphries is prohibited from taking payments for goods or services in advance, or using the services of any Hackney carriage or private hire taxi firm in Telford, unless the fare is paid in advance, for the next three years.

Constable Louise Hickman, of Telford police, said officers had put a lot of hard work into obtaining the Crasbo, working with people who had been a victim of Humphries in the past. 

She said: “I am delighted we have managed to obtain a three-year Crasbo that should help prevent Humphries from acting fraudulently against older and more vulnerable members of our communities.

“He has a long history of taking advantage of vulnerable people by asking for payment up front for general maintenance work he says he will do, and then not following through with any of the work that has been agreed and paid for.

“In the past he has also taken money up front from individuals claiming he will supply them with goods such as cigarettes, but has then not returned with the items once he has been given the money.”

Constable Hickman added: “We are hopeful this Crasbo will prove effective as any breaches of it can mean he is arrested and potentially convicted. 

“I would warn members of the public to be extremely wary of this man and to take note of the restrictions that have been placed upon him.”