Former manager stole customer refunds

A former manager at DIY shed chain B&Q has appeared in court accused of pocketing more than £61,000 in bogus refunds.
Truro Crown Court heard that Nicholas Mead gave refunds to bogus customers but kept the money himself. He denies four charges of fraud and two of theft.

He was arrested in November 2007, having been suspended from B&Q in June.

As manager, Mead was able to authorise cash refunds without having to produce receipts. He is accused of abusing his position by falsely making cash refunds with intent to make a gain for himself or another. Two further charges allege theft between August 2006 and June 2008.

The prosecution claims that there was evidence of high living and a lifestyle “that cannot be explained by his legitimate income.”