Andrew Pilley, the owner of Fleetwood Town and Waterford FC, has been sentenced to 13 years in jail after being found guilty of two counts of running a business with the intention of defrauding creditors, one count of false representation, and one count of being concerned with the retention of criminal property.
A trading standards investigation uncovered Pilley's misconduct, including the mis-selling of gas and electricity contracts and the posting of fake customer comments on websites.
Michael Bichard, the chairman of National Trading Standards, stated, "Small business owners were intentionally deceived and trapped in long-term, expensive contracts, resulting in many businesses struggling to meet their financial obligations and unfortunately forcing some owners to cease trading altogether."
"This is not a victimless crime - small business owners have suffered significant financial losses due to this fraud, causing numerous businesses to collapse."
Pilley was convicted at Preston Crown Court in May and was in custody prior to his sentencing on Monday.
Club statement: Andy Pilleyhttps://t.co/GmR6U2qd8E
— Fleetwood Town FC (@ftfc) July 4, 2023
Waterford Football Club released a statement acknowledging the sentencing of owner Andy Pilley, emphasizing that the convictions pertain to individuals and not Waterford FC or any associated businesses.
The club also ensured that it will continue operating as usual and declined further comment.
"Waterford Football Club acknowledges the sentencing in the court case involving owner Andy Pilley," said the club
"The club would like to reiterate convictions are against individuals and not Waterford FC, or any of the businesses associated with them, and will continue to operate as normal.
"The club will make no further comment at this time."
Fleetwood also addressed the issue on their website, saying "Fleetwood Town Football Club acknowledges the sentencing in the court case involving former club chairman, Andy Pilley," added the English club
"The club would like to reiterate convictions are against individuals and not Fleetwood Town FC, or any of the businesses associated with them, and will continue to operate as normal.
"Fleetwood Town remain in communication with the EFL and will be making no further comment at this time."
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