A major investigation into doorstep fraud targeting elderly and vulnerable homeowners has led to multiple convictions for money laundering.

Between February and September 2019, organised criminals operating in Surrey, Essex and London coerced homeowners into paying substantial sums for building work that was unnecessary, substandard or never carried out. Victims were falsely told their homes required urgent repairs and were persuaded to pay deposits for equipment such as cranes and scaffolding that was never delivered.

Although investigators were unable to identify those who committed the doorstep offences directly, they uncovered an extensive laundering network responsible for moving the proceeds of crime. At its centre was 54-year-old Lee Cross, originally from Romford, who controlled numerous business bank accounts under various trading names, including A-Z Repairs. Evidence showed Cross knowingly supported the frauds by providing the financial infrastructure to channel the criminal funds, swiftly transferring money between accounts and withdrawing large sums in cash.

On 13 November at Guildford Crown Court, Cross and three co-defendants were convicted for laundering more than £500,000 linked to the fraudulent building works.

One of the key fraud charges related to a victim who was falsely told that “up and over” scaffolding costing £8,000 was required. Emails and calls were made by an individual calling himself “Andy Dorson” of A-Z Repairs—an identity later proven, through voice analysis and digital evidence, to be Cross himself.

The prosecution case drew on evidence from seven households, collectively defrauded of over £500,000. The indictment contained 20 counts, including one fraud charge connected to the scaffolding deception.

Trial Outcome

The trial ran for 28 sitting days from 22 September to 13 November 2025. After several days of deliberation, the jury delivered the following verdicts:

• Lee Cross, 54, originally from Romford – Guilty on all major counts of money laundering and fraud.

• Sorisa Richardson, 45, Romford – Guilty on one count.

• Zoe Hoskyn, 40, Hornchurch – Guilty on five counts.

• Pauline Walker, 70, Romford – Guilty on four counts; not guilty on one.

• Lewis Richardson, 25, Romford, and Richard Griffiths, 40, Romford – Not guilty on all counts.

• Jason Walker, 35, from Blackburn, originally charged, failed to attend the first hearing and will be dealt with separately.

Sentencing will take place in February. Cross has been remanded in custody until then.

Kevin Deanus, Cabinet Member for Surrey Fire and Rescue Service and Resilience, said:
“Doorstep fraudsters target the most vulnerable in our communities. These prosecutions send a clear message that we will pursue those who profit from this criminal activity and protect residents from harm. I’d like to thank the Trading Standards team for their diligent work. This case highlights the strength of our investigation and partnership working, which brought this complex case to a successful conclusion.”

Advice on Dealing With Uninvited Doorstep Callers

• You are under no obligation to speak to them.

• If you do engage, do not agree to any work immediately. Traders must provide written notice outlining your legal right to a 14-day cooling-off period.

• Always obtain multiple quotes before making a decision.

• Never pay cash on the doorstep.

• Before employing anyone, Buckinghamshire & Surrey Trading Standards advise residents to review further guidance on what to ask and what to look for in a reputable trader.

More advice is available on the Surrey County Council website.