Sentencing date set in “most unusual” fraud case

Christopher Stocks to be sentenced in May following earlier guilty pleas

A sentencing date has been set for a man described by a Deemster as being at the centre of the “most unusual of cases”.

Christopher Stocks, aged 40, appeared before the Court of General Gaol Delivery for a pre-sentencing review.

The court heard he faces several counts of fraud, as well as an offence relating to wearing a military uniform without permission.

Deemster Graeme Cook remanded Stocks in custody, noting there had been no application for bail.

He also urged Stocks to cooperate with a social enquiry report which is currently being prepared ahead of sentencing.

The case follows an earlier hearing this month at Douglas Courthouse, where Stocks entered guilty pleas to a number of offences including fraudulently obtaining a work permit using false qualifications, deceiving employers, and defrauding local businesses of goods worth thousands of pounds.

He had also admitted stealing military uniform and wearing it without authority.

At that earlier hearing, the Deputy High Bailiff declined jurisdiction and committed the case to the higher court for sentencing.

Stocks is now due to be sentenced on 20 May.