Title: UK Dealer Faces Jail Time for Selling Death Trap Car Twice
Introduction
Car dealerships engaging in unethical practices are not limited to the United States. In the West Midlands, United Kingdom, a 62-year-old dealer named Steven Hickman has been convicted of selling an “unroadworthy” Subaru Forester to a customer, only to sell the same car again a month later without addressing its issues. This article delves into the details of this shocking case and highlights the consequences faced by the dealer.
The Initial Sale and Refund
Last March, Steven Hickman, the owner of Shelby’s of Netherton, sold a Subaru Forester to a customer despite its unroadworthy condition. However, instead of rectifying the car’s problems, Hickman resold it to another customer just a month later. The first customer was supposed to receive a refund of £3,500, which Hickman failed to provide.
The Second Sale and Unveiling of Issues
In the second transaction, the second customer paid £4,300 for the same Subaru Forester. Shortly after purchasing the vehicle, the customer experienced a suspension failure while driving. An investigative agency was called in for the second time and discovered that paint had been used to conceal rust on the car.
Hickman’s Admission of Wrongdoing
Steven Hickman has admitted to engaging in misleading commercial practices and contravening professional diligence requirements. District Judge Graham Wilkinson condemned Hickman’s actions, stating that he was willing to sell a “death trap.” The judge also indicated that a custodial sentence was likely for Hickman.
Failure to Act with Due Care
In addition to his misleading practices, Hickman also admitted to failing to act with due care when supplying a dangerous product and allowing another person to use a motor vehicle that posed a risk of injury. These admissions further highlight the severity of his actions and disregard for public safety.
Local Response and Consequences
A local politician expressed shock at the case, emphasizing that Hickman had already faced legal action regarding the dangerous car. Instead of scrapping or properly repairing the vehicle, Hickman chose to patch it up and sell it again, this time for an even higher price. The politician also assured consumers that Dudley Trading Standards would thoroughly investigate complaints related to misleading practices or the sale of dangerous vehicles.
Upcoming Sentencing
Steven Hickman is scheduled to be sentenced in Wolverhampton Crown Court on October 23rd. Given the gravity of his offenses and the potential danger he exposed customers to, it is expected that he will face a custodial sentence.
Conclusion
The case of Steven Hickman, a UK car dealer who sold a death trap car twice, highlights the importance of consumer protection and the need for strict regulations in the automotive industry. This incident serves as a reminder for consumers to exercise caution when purchasing used vehicles and to report any suspicious practices to the appropriate authorities. The upcoming sentencing of Hickman will hopefully send a strong message that such unethical behavior will not be tolerated and that those who endanger public safety will face severe consequences.
