Prolific fraudster sets up new Scots company despite police probe and claims of £50,000 theft

A notorious fraudster has come under scrutiny for setting up a new business in Scotland despite facing a police investigation and accusations of stealing £50,000. Brian Goldie, now operating under the name Gerald Paterson, recently launched Worldwide Aviation Ltd after his previous company folded, leaving several individuals in financial distress. This new venture marks the ninth company Goldie has been involved with since returning to Scotland from Thailand, where he faced allegations of deceiving an elderly woman.

One of the victims, pilot Neil Hawkyard, disclosed how Goldie swindled £50,000 from him through a company named Spin Aviation based in Prestwick. Expressing frustration at the lack of action taken by authorities, Hawkyard criticised regulatory bodies for permitting Goldie to establish a new business amidst fresh allegations of fraudulent activities. Despite reporting the incident to the police in Kilmarnock two years ago, no progress has been made in the case, leaving Hawkyard and potentially others at a loss.

Goldie reportedly persuaded Hawkyard to invest in a non-existent mining project, falsely presenting himself as a successful entrepreneur engaged in precious metal transportation. When Hawkyard requested his investment back, Goldie evaded communication, leaving him in a precarious financial situation. Furthermore, a plane owned by Goldie’s firm was abandoned at Prestwick Flight Centre following his alleged departure, leaving behind financial obligations.

Goldie, who has a history of fraudulent activities dating back to his time at the Royal Bank of Scotland and subsequent exploits in Australia and Thailand, has faced repeated accusations of financial misconduct. Despite his deceptive practices, Goldie continues to evade accountability, with authorities confirming that investigations are ongoing. His ability to establish new enterprises under false identities raises concerns about the lack of safeguards in place to protect unsuspecting individuals from falling prey to fraudulent schemes.