A car dealership in Harlow, Essex, named Happier Cars, is facing accusations of defrauding customers of over £740,000. An ITV News investigation has uncovered claims from at least 50 individuals who allege they have been left without their vehicles or the money from their sale.
The investigation, conducted by ITV News Reporter Kaf Okpattah, also found indications of potential illegal trading and the sale of cars that had previously been reported as stolen. Happier Cars operated on a commission basis, promising to sell customers’ cars on their behalf.
Among those affected is Salvador Marval, a London-based engineer, who entrusted Happier Cars with the sale of his Tesla. Despite the car being sold for £22,000, Mr Marval states he has not received any payment after nearly five months. Documents seen by ITV News suggest that at least 52 customers are collectively owed over £700,000 by the dealership.
Frustrated customers have reported the matter to the police. Shameer Ahmed, who sold his BMW through Happier Cars for £16,000 but never received payment, had his car marked as stolen and seized by the police. Despite this, his vehicle has not been returned to him.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are investigating an alleged car theft reported on March 19th, where the victim claims their car was sold without permission and without payment. Essex Police also confirmed they are investigating allegations of fraud related to the Harlow dealership and are in contact with an appointed insolvency practitioner. Reports have also been made to the Trading Standards Agency.
Further investigation by ITV News revealed that two vehicles previously sold by Happier Cars had been reported as stolen. Additionally, despite applying for dissolution in August of the previous year, contracts indicate Happier Cars continued to take on clients, a potential breach of the Companies Act. Companies House stated that breaches could lead to legal and financial repercussions.
The company director of Happier Cars, Charles Dean Cavendish, has been identified as a central figure. The dealership premises were found to be closed and empty. Attempts to contact Mr Cavendish by phone, text, email, and letter have been unsuccessful. The Happier Cars website is no longer active, and the company has been dissolved. As police investigations continue, customers are hoping to recover their cars or their money.
Source: ITV News London