A Burton-on-Trent car dealer has pleaded guilty to dozens of offences following an investigation by Staffordshire Trading Standards.
Mr Sheeth Adam, aged 40 from 5 Rykneld Road, Derby, pleaded guilty to 41 charges relating to selling unsafe vehicles, aggressive trading practices and not providing buyers with cancellation rights. As the sole director of Premium Car Sales (Burton) Limited, he pleaded guilty at a hearing at North Staffordshire Justice Centre on Monday 20 April.
The prosecution followed numerous complaints from customers across the country who purchased vehicles described as being in good condition, well maintained or roadworthy, but which later developed serious faults. In several cases, vehicles broke down shortly after purchase or were later found to be unsafe or dangerous to drive.
Many customers were left significantly out of pocket.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“This case shows the real harm caused when traders deliberately flout the law and put profit before people’s safety.
“Our Trading Standards officers found multiple cases where customers were left with unsafe vehicles, were forced to pay for repairs themselves, or had no option but to scrap vehicles shortly after purchase.
“Anyone selling vehicles must meet their legal responsibilities and we will not hesitate to take tough action where businesses mislead, pressure or abuse consumers.”
The offences relate to Mr Adam and his operation of second-hand car sales businesses primarily operating from sites in Horninglow Street and Hawkins Lane in Burton-on-Trent. His businesses traded under several names, including Elite Car Sales, Castle Car Sales, Hodges Car Sales and Budget Car Sales.
He has been bailed to appear before Stafford Crown Court, where he will be sentenced at a later date.
Anyone concerned about a trader or seeking consumer advice should visit the Citizens Advice website or call 0808 223 1133.
