The former owner of Shinzo restaurant has pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud and forgery after “deliberately deceiving” victims out of more than £700,000.
Gavin Roberts, who is currently serving a 15-year jail sentence for other offences including rape and assault, appeared in the Royal Court this morning.
The 46-year-old pleaded guilty to four counts of fraud and forgery that took place between 2018 and 2022, and had a total value of more than £700,000.
Roberts was the former owner of the Shinzo sushi and steak restaurant in St Aubin which closed in 2022, owing thousands of pounds in unpaid debt.
The investigation into his financial crimes was carried out by the Joint Financial Crimes Unit of the States of Jersey Police.
A spokesperson for the unit said: “This was a long and complex investigation which has resulted in Roberts admitting to deliberately deceiving victims, all of whom suffered not only financial hardship but also emotional distress.
This was a long and complex investigation which has resulted in Roberts admitting to deliberately deceiving victims, all of whom suffered not only financial hardship but also emotional distress
Joint Financial Crimes Unit
“This case highlights the devastating impact fraud can have on victims. We commend their courage in coming forward and for their cooperation throughout the investigation.
“Today’s guilty plea is a step toward justice, and we hope it brings some measure of closure to those affected.”
Roberts will be sentenced on 25 September.