A GORSLAS courier, who failed to declare his true income in order to steal over £60,000 in tax, has been jailed for 20 months.

Self-employed John Griffiths worked as a delivery driver for two companies between January 2010 and October 2015.

An investigation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) revealed that he had failed to pay VAT on his earnings, instead pocketing the cash for himself.

Griffiths, of Black Lion Road, pleaded guilty to being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of Value Added Tax contrary to Section 72(1) of the Value Added Tax Act 1994.

The 50-year-old’s fraud amounted to a total of £60, 0993, Swansea Crown Court heard during a case hearing last Friday (December 18).

The sentence of 20 months imprisonment was suspended for 18 months and Griffiths must also carry out 200 hours of unpaid work during a 12-month supervision order.

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

“Griffiths was fully aware of his tax liabilities and responsibilities of being self-employed but he chose to ignore them for over five years.

“Our investigation showed that Griffiths made a significant amount of money at the expense of the taxpayer and public services.”

Mr Spinks added: “If you know of anyone who is evading tax please contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000, and help us stamp out this crime.”

Reports can also be made via the website: gov.uk/report-an-unregistered-trader-or-business