Fraudster who impersonated police officer sentenced
Craig Machon, 30, made cold calls claiming to be a member of Norfolk police, to obtain bank details from victims
A man has been sentenced for impersonating a police officer to commit fraud in Norfolk earlier this year.
Craig Machon, a 30-year-old from St Albans, Hertfordshire, made cold calls to residents in Ormesby, Scratby, and Hemsby during March, claiming to be a named member of Norfolk police.
Machon allegedly directed those who questioned him to the constabulary’s website to verify his false identity and reportedly threatened them with action for 'wasting police time' if they did not comply.
According to the investigation, Machon succeeded in convincing two individuals to part with money, obtaining £100 and £3,000 from his victims.
He was arrested on 18th March and charged with 12 counts of fraud by false representation.
On 16th July, he appeared at Norwich Crown Court, where he received a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years.
Initially denying involvement, Machon later admitted to all charges.
Operation Converter, suspecting more offences, identified 169 additional fraudulent actions taken into consideration by the court at sentencing.
Digital forensic analysis revealed approximately 600 suspicious calls made from Machon’s device, 169 of which lasted long enough for probable victim engagement.
These offences occurred between 10th and 18th March, targeting victims across Hampshire, Leicestershire, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Lancashire.
Detective Inspector Emily-Louise Bugg, leading Norfolk Police’s fraud team, said: “Courier fraud is a particularly distressing crime because offenders deliberately exploit people’s trust in organisations like the police and banks.
"Victims are often manipulated into handing over cash, bank cards, or valuable items under the belief they are helping with an investigation or protecting their finances.
"The emotional and financial impact can be significant, leaving victims feeling shocked, embarrassed and vulnerable—even though this crime is never their fault.
"We urge the public to remember that neither the police nor your bank will ever ask for your PIN, request that you withdraw money, or send a courier to collect your belongings.
"If you receive a suspicious call, hang up, wait five minutes, and verify it using a trusted number, such as calling your bank directly.
"Always take a moment to check who you’re dealing with, and never transfer money or hand over valuables to someone you don’t know.
"Staying vigilant and taking these simple steps can help protect you and those around you from becoming victims of this type of fraud.”