Full Breakdown
Prolific Cowboy Builders Sentenced for Fraudulent Activities
12/23/2025, 12:18:31 AM
Mark Killick's Fraudulent Scheme
Mark Killick, a 56-year-old builder from Paulton, North East Somerset, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for defrauding 37 customers out of more than £1.25 million. His trial at Bristol Crown Court revealed that between 2019 and 2021, while operating under the name TD Cole, Killick failed to complete numerous building projects despite receiving substantial upfront payments. Judge Moira Macmillan described the impact of Killick's actions as causing "serious and ongoing" harm, leaving many victims' homes in a "truly shocking" state. Killick has a long history of fraud, with previous convictions dating back to 2008.
Background and Context
Killick's fraudulent activities came to light after Avon and Somerset Police and Trading Standards received over 100 complaints against him during the specified period. His criminal record includes multiple convictions for fraud, with a notable case in 2014 involving 42 victims and losses amounting to £573,000. Despite his claims of running an honest business, Killick's actions suggest otherwise, as he was found guilty of 37 counts of fraud during his trial.
Victims' Experiences
Many victims, including Stephen Gledhill, testified about their experiences with Killick. Gledhill paid approximately £18,000 in advance for a kitchen renovation that was never completed. He expressed feelings of shock and betrayal, stating, "I just feel really shocked that he could go through with something like that, telling multiple lies to so many people." Victims reported that Killick's unfinished work left them in difficult situations, often forcing them to seek alternative builders to complete the jobs.
Official Statements & Responses
Killick has requested permission to appeal his conviction, maintaining that he intended to complete the work if not for his arrest in November 2021. Following his release, he will be subject to a Serious Crime Prevention Order (SCPO) for five years, which will restrict his ability to work in the building industry. The SCPO is expected to require him to operate under the name Marc Cole and disqualify him from being a company director for 15 years.
Martin Ritchie's Fraudulent Activities
In a separate case, Martin Ritchie, a 35-year-old builder from Motherwell, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for defrauding a couple out of £150,000. Ritchie was hired to renovate Jim and Jean Shaw's dream bungalow but completed little to no work between May and July 2021. Instead, he used the funds to finance a lavish lifestyle, including purchasing a boat and shopping sprees. The Shaws were left to pay for rented accommodation while hiring another builder to finish the work.
Criticism & Opposition
Both Killick and Ritchie faced significant backlash from their victims. The Shaws described their experience as devastating, stating, "This was going to be our forever home." Ritchie’s behavior was characterized by Sheriff Paul Reid as "deplorable and dishonest," highlighting the emotional and financial toll on the victims.
What's Next
As both cases unfold, victims of Killick may still have avenues for financial recovery through banking codes that allow refunds for fraudulent transactions. Meanwhile, Killick's appeal process and the enforcement of his SCPO will be closely monitored.
