Twisted individual Edward Putman has a history of exploiting those closest to him. Beginning with a rape conviction in 1991, his life has been marked by a series of cruel acts, including domestic violence, benefit fraud, and violence, culminating in the elaborate 2009 National Lottery fraud scheme.
The fraud scheme centered around an unlikely partnership between Putman and Camelot fraud worker Giles Knibbs. Utilizing a counterfeit ticket, Putman successfully claimed £2.5 million and proceeded to indulge in a luxurious lifestyle, splurging on BMWs and extravagant vacations. The deception remained undetected for seven years until the Gambling Commission penalized National Lottery operator Camelot with a £3 million fine for lax controls that enabled a manipulated ticket to win.
Investigations into council records and land documents uncovered Putman’s extravagant spending post-lottery win, including a substantial cash outlay of £466,000 on his partner’s property, which he transformed into a graveyard for dilapidated vehicles. Following his imprisonment, the property was left abandoned and later vandalized by arsonists. Despite being released early from his sentence due to crisis measures, Putman recently complied with a Proceeds of Crime Act court order, though the whereabouts of over £1 million from the scam remain undisclosed.
The impact of Putman’s criminal activities on those in his vicinity is undeniable, highlighting the enduring repercussions of his actions.