Serial vehicle repair fraudster jailed after Kent Trading Standards Investigation
Kevin Woods admitted fraudulent trading spanning years across Kent
A man who operated fraudulent vehicle repair businesses across Kent has been jailed for two years following investigations by Kent Trading Standards.
Kevin George Woods, of St Johns Road, Whitstable, admitted offences under the Fraud Act 2006 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.
Sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on 9th January 2026, Woods was described by judges as exploiting consumer trust to cause “serious harm to the industry” and eroding confidence in legitimate businesses.
Trading Standards operations uncover fraudulent activity
The prosecution followed two extensive investigations by Kent County Council Trading Standards — Operation Fable and Operation Harmonica — into fraudulent practices linked to multiple companies run or controlled by Woods.
Operation Fable began after Trading Standards received more than 100 complaints from March 2019 onwards about companies advertising gearbox repair services. Customers were misled into paying upfront for repairs that were either unfinished or done poorly.
Investigators discovered Woods was using aliases, trading despite being disqualified, and conducting aggressive and deceptive practices. He ignored detailed legal advice provided by Trading Standards, continuing operations under his wife’s name.
Operation Harmonica focused on Woods’ involvement in Harman Garage Services Limited, registered in October 2023. Although fronted by another individual, Woods controlled business operations, including customer communications, vehicle collections, and finances.
Court sentencing
Miss Recorder Bignell KC sentenced Woods at Canterbury Crown Court, highlighting that the victims represented only a fraction of complaints made and describing the harm caused as “dreadful on some, serious on all.”
The court found Woods used false details to hide prior complaints, attracting new business and abusing consumer trust for financial gain.
Complaints about Woods’ businesses followed patterns including:
Vehicles collected and not returned
Repairs not conducted or completed to a poor standard
Promised refunds which were not issued
Woods admitted using false names and concealed information about his role in interviews under caution. Investigators also discovered Woods had driven customers’ vehicles without permission, supported by Automatic Number Plate Recognition data and consumer statements.
Response from Trading Standards
Clive Phillips, Operations Manager at Kent Trading Standards, said Woods caused significant harm through persistent fraudulent behaviour:
“These prosecutions demonstrate our commitment to protecting consumers from persistent and calculated fraud.
“Woods was warned about his trading practices and was provided detailed advice which he chose to ignore. His actions caused significant financial and emotional harm to many individuals and we will continue to pursue those who exploit others through dishonest trading practices.”
KCC Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Paul Webb, added:
“This case sends a clear message that fraudulent behaviour will not be tolerated in Kent. Woods’ actions caused real distress to residents who trusted him with their vehicles and their money.
“I commend the Trading Standards team for their thorough investigation and determination in bringing this individual to justice. Protecting consumers and upholding fair trading practices is a priority for us and we will continue to support efforts that safeguard our communities.”