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From Dating Site to Deceptive Promises (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Hove Crown Court handed down a two-year prison sentence to a 57-year-old man who exploited an online connection to defraud a woman of more than £11,000 over several years.[1][2]
From Dating Site to Deceptive Promises
Andrew Cosham first connected with the woman from Portslade on a dating website back in 2019. He arranged to meet her but then blocked her number, only to reach out again the following year. By spring 2021, they met in person, and their involvement deepened quickly. Within months, Cosham stayed at her home frequently, received keys to the property, and even met her family.[2]
The relationship appeared serious on the surface. Cosham spoke of marriage and shared dreams of buying a home together. He claimed a £3 million bank account remained frozen due to complications from a divorce appeal. They viewed several properties, with the victim covering the cost of a survey for one. Yet excuses always surfaced to delay any progress.[1]
The Web of Lies Unfolds
Cosham began requesting money under various pretexts. He cited needs like council tax arrears, debts to a storage company and phone provider, fines from an altercation in Brighton, and support for his elderly sister’s health issues. The victim transferred funds totaling over £11,000, often to his sister’s bank account, which he then withdrew for personal spending. His sister played no role in the scheme, authorities clarified.[3]
To bolster credibility, Cosham sent fake text messages purportedly from a solicitor about fees required to unfreeze his account. He repeatedly assured repayment once the funds became accessible. Initially, he asked for a small £200 sum and then vanished briefly, only to return in summer 2022 with renewed tales of his troubles. The pattern persisted until he ghosted her entirely, leaving the debts unpaid.[2]
Investigation Leads to Justice
The victim reported the fraud to Sussex Police in September 2022. Officers launched a detailed probe, navigating through layers of deception. Cosham faced arrest in November 2023 on suspicion of fraud by false representation. Prosecutors formally charged him in September 2025, and he pleaded guilty the next month at Worthing Magistrates’ Court.[1]
On February 16, 2026, Recorder John Hardy at Hove Crown Court imposed the two-year sentence. Cosham also received a £187 victim surcharge and a restraining order barring any contact with the woman or visits to her address. The case highlighted the prolonged grooming involved in such scams.[2]
Police Warn of Romance Fraud’s Lasting Harm
Detective Sergeant Rodney Davis described the crime as particularly cruel. “Romance fraud is a particularly cruel offence,” he stated. “The financial loss can have lasting consequences, but the emotional impact from the extensive manipulation by fraudsters can be truly devastating.” He emphasized that victims bear no blame and urged others to come forward.[1]
Authorities noted the challenge in unraveling such cases due to the personal trust exploited. Cosham’s actions spanned nearly three years, blending false affection with fabricated crises. Police committed to pursuing similar offenders relentlessly.
Key Takeaways
- Scammers often build long-term relationships online before requesting money.
- Common excuses include frozen assets, debts, or family emergencies.
- Report suspicions early – victims face no fault, and justice remains possible even after years.
This sentencing serves as a stark reminder of romance fraud’s devastating toll, blending financial ruin with emotional betrayal. Victims like the Portslade woman demonstrate resilience by speaking out. What steps do you take to protect yourself from online romance scams? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Fritz is the managing director of Europe’s largest manufacturer of mobile stages Kultour and has a lot of experience in the event industry, loves music and likes to go to festivals.
