Police charge suspected loan sharks in Brixham

Raids took place on Tuesday

Police have charged a group of suspected loan sharks in South Devon.

Jamie Grant, aged 41, and Mahli Binmore, aged 27, from Burton Street, Stuart Grant, aged 39, from Wishings Road and Ian Grant, aged 45, from Bolton Street have all been charged with conspiracy to run an unlicensed money lending business.

Jamie Rowlatt, aged 41, from St Marys Hill has also been charged with illegal money lending and money laundering offences.

The group were arrested on Tuesday (11th of December) after an operation involving local officers and the England Illegal Money Lending Team.

They searched five addresses in Brixham and seized documentation, electronic devices and a quantity of cash.

Tony Quigley, Head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Loan sharks are a blight on society and prey on vulnerable people who struggle to make ends meet.

“This crime will not be tolerated in Devon and we will continue to work with our council and police partners to stamp out illegal money lending.

“We urge anyone affected by loan sharks to contact us in confidence on 0300 555 2222. Our lines are open round-the-clock over the festive period and we will help you.”

Neighbourhood Sergeant, Lee Langley said: “On Tuesday, warrants in Brixham, alongside colleagues from the National Illegal Money Lending team and other supporting police units.

“Six men and one woman, all from Brixham, were taken into police custody on suspicion of offences including illegal money lending and money laundering.

“This ongoing piece of work highlights the great multi-agency working between police and the Illegal Money Leading Team to safeguard our local communities and disrupt illegal activity.”.

The suspects are due before Newton Abbot Magistrates on Wednesday 16 January.

To report a loan shark, call the 24/7 confidential hotline on 0300 555 2222, text a report to 078600 22116 or visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk.