The director of a Gloucester security services company, who stole almost half a million pounds in tax, has been jailed for three years after an investigation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

Jonathan Benjamin Schofield, 32, of Staxton Drive, Kingsway, Gloucester, was a director of J S Facilities Group Ltd. Between 2011 and 2016, Schofield made fraudulent declarations of Income Tax, National Insurance and VAT - committing tax frauds totalling £497,000.

Colin Spinks, Assistant Director, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said:

"When we pay tax, we expect it to be funding vital public services, not to line the pockets of unscrupulous traders. Schofield knew he was breaking the law but thought he could get away with ripping off honest taxpayers. Now he's in jail and facing the consequences of his criminal behaviour.

"HMRC is levelling the playing field for honest businesses, investing more time and effort than ever into tracking down those who attempt to rip off the public. Tax fraud is a serious crime and I ask anyone with information about those who may be involved to contact HMRC online or call our Fraud Hotline on 0800 788 887."

Upon sentencing at Gloucester Crown Court, His Honour Judge Lawrie QC, said:

"There was compelling evidence to show that Mr Schofield was a dishonest man, he knew what he was doing to make his life easier, he consistently failed to meet with HMRC over an 18 month period and has been less than co-operative throughout.Mr Schofield did not recognise that he had done anything wrong and pointed the finger at others whilst abusing his position and enjoying a lavish lifestyle."

Confiscation proceedings to recover proceeds of the crime are under way.

Picture credit: HMRC generic investigation image