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Dating App Tradie's $22K Gambling Scam
19 Nov
Summary
- Tradie jailed for defrauding four women for $22,180.
- Gambling addiction fueled the dating app fraudster's crimes.
- Victims were duped with fake funeral and work trip stories.
Leigh Abbot, a 46-year-old tradie, received a nine-month jail sentence for defrauding four women of $22,180 between April 2023 and March 2024. His crimes were fueled by a severe gambling addiction, with most of the illicit gains funneled into betting apps.
Abbot employed various deceptions, including fabricating his father's death to solicit funds for a supposed funeral and travel expenses from one victim. Another was convinced to take out loans for a fictitious work trip to Sydney, while Abbot remained in Melbourne. He also preyed on victims with promises of romance and repayment, often sending back small amounts to maintain trust before requesting larger sums.
Investigations revealed Abbot's minimal bank balances prior to and during the scams. The court highlighted the calculated nature of his offending, which preyed on women seeking romantic connections. Abbot has a history of similar offenses, having been jailed in 2017 for defrauding other women.
