Romance fraudster jailed after conning victim out of £30,000
Simon Turner sentenced to 10 years behind bars
Last updated 24th Apr 2026
Simon Turner, a 49-year-old from Brockenhurst, Hampshire, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for fraud by false representation and theft.
Turner was convicted of conning a woman he met on a dating website out of nearly £30,000 during their relationship in 2024 and 2025.
Reading Crown Court handed down the sentence on 22nd April, along with a restraining order preventing him from contacting his victim for 10 years.
Turner initially gained the trust of his victim, a woman from Amesbury, and convinced her to lend him money by fabricating stories about financial difficulties.
He falsely claimed to have more than £60,000 tied up in a property account that he could not access, while also promising to buy vehicles and pay other expenses.
These turned out to be lies used to exploit the woman's kindness and vulnerability.
Despite red flags, including cancelled holidays and excuses, Turner continued to deceive his victim, who eventually discovered he was living in a caravan with a gambling addiction.
The woman’s family, initially suspicious, uncovered Turner’s previous convictions for fraud and theft via an online search.
During court proceedings, the victim spoke of the severe emotional impact Turner’s actions have had on her, expressing feelings of isolation, embarrassment, and loss of trust.
Wiltshire, Dorset, and Thames Valley police forces collaborated on an investigation leading to Turner’s arrest.
Local crime investigator Sophie Vowles described Turner’s manipulation of his victim as a severe breach of trust, fabricating numerous stories to justify the need for money, often striking promises of repayment to further exploit the victim's goodwill.
“Romance fraud is a callous crime. This sentence reflects its seriousness and offers some measure of closure to the victim,” Vowles said, highlighting the emotional and financial scars left by such deceit.
The victim emphasised her sense of judgment by others, amplified by her vulnerability and trust being exploited.
Wiltshire Police say Turner’s sentence serves as a warning to others who might consider targeting vulnerable individuals online, reinforcing that authorities will pursue and prosecute those responsible for such crimes.