A fraudster has been jailed again after scamming people into buying items such as quad bikes on the internet.

Blake Paterson, previously of Maidstone High Street, was released on licence in 2022 having been jailed for offences connected to bogus online car sales.

He had been convicted of multiple crimes after tricking victims into paying money, and then failing to provide the vehicles in return.

As well as licensing conditions, which enabled him to be recalled to prison if he reoffended, Paterson had been required to comply with a Serious Crime Prevention Order restricting his use of communication devices and business email accounts.

But in May this year, just months after his release, he advertised motorbikes and quad bikes for sale on the internet using a false name.

Two victims contacted Paterson and transferred payments totalling £2,245, yet in both cases, the goods were not delivered.

A third buyer sought to purchase an electric bike but did not part with any funds.

An investigation by Kent Police’s Economic Crime Unit established Paterson was responsible for the frauds, having held the mobile phone used to liaise with the victims.

Detectives also established the money had been transferred into his own bank accounts.

The 39-year-old was arrested on September 19.

He was then charged with three counts of fraud, as well as 10 counts of breaching a Serious Crime Prevention Order.

Paterson pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, and was sentenced yesterday to two years’ imprisonment.

He will also be subject to a further Serious Crime Prevention Order when released.

Det Con Matt Thomas said: "Paterson was previously jailed for similar frauds and has shown complete contempt for the criminal justice system by committing more offences upon his release.

"A further jail sentence is entirely appropriate, and, because he breached his licence and was recalled to prison, the reality is he will actually serve longer than this.

"We will now be seeking to recover the stolen money using powers under the Proceeds of Crime Act.

"I would seek to remind anyone making large purchases on the internet to ensure they are liaising with a legitimate seller, and that appropriate safeguards are in place before making any payments."