A man has admitted stealing from the County Durham company he helped to run in a managerial role, but he disputes the amount he is alleged to have taken.
Liam Liddle appeared at a Durham Crown Court plea hearing on Friday (September 12), accused of a single charge of fraud by abuse of position.
It is said that as general manager and paid to safeguard the interests of Customise It Now, on Littleburn Industrial Estate, Langley Moor, near Durham, he defrauded it by £34,889, between April 1, 2019, and March 23, 2024.
Liddle admitted the charge, but his counsel, Gary Wood, told the court: “He’s pleaded guilty, but I understand there’s a basis of plea.
“He admits the offence but disputes the amount.
“It’s a little bit complicated as there’s a large volume of bank transactions and he said it (the offending) was limited.
“His solicitors have only had all the bank material in the last couple of weeks.
“He would say the figure is closer to £20,000, so there’s a near £15,000 difference, and he needs to be advised about each bank transaction.”
Judge Richard Clews said there needs to be a further hearing in a few weeks for both prosecution and defence sides to make submissions as to the amount involved in the fraud.
The judge told the defendant: “That will have to be looked into.
“You are entitled to credit for your guilty plea, but how much depends on whether or not the figures are accepted.”
The judge said the case would not resolve at the next hearing, as he would adjourn for a background report by the Probation Service, if the figures are agreed.
Read next ... more court stories from The Northern Echo by clicking here
- Durham hospital technician stole medical equipment to sell on eBay
- Murton woman faces sentence for theft, burglary and fraud charges
- Pair face trial for Gilesgate Moor house burglary and car theft
But, if they are not, then the case would be adjourned for a trial of issue to settle on the amount involved in the fraud.
Judge Clews told Liddle, however: “When it comes down the line, given the amount involved and the fraud itself, there’s a risk you will receive a prison sentence.”
He adjourned for a further case management hearing to be held at the court on October 10 and bailed the 36-year-old defendant, of Worm Hill Terrace, Fatfield, Washington, in the meantime.
Share