A Glasgow man scammed a pair out of £2200 in a property fraud.

William Armstrong, 41, appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court this week after he pleaded guilty to pretending he was legally able to sublet a Ruchill business unit.

He also admitted to obtaining £2200 by fraud.

In July 2018, two people were made aware of the property on Bilsland Drive. They contacted Armstrong, who said he was willing to go into business.

At the time, the unit was operating as Busy B's Laundry.

On July 11, 2018, they contacted Armstrong and made an offer of £2000. This was rejected by Armstrong, who was asking for £8000-9000. It was agreed that they would pay £8000.

The seller requested £2000 upfront, which was paid.

On August 21, a payment of £100 was requested. This was paid. Then, another £100 was requested.

In October, the witnesses arrived at the property and saw that it was locked up. They returned and noticed that the shutters were jammed.

The witnesses contacted the building's owners.

Officials stated that Armstong was in breach of his tenancy and was not permitted to let out the property. A report was made to the police.

In January 2019, Armstrong, of Clarkston attended Clydebank police station.

He was cautioned and charged, and replied: “Load of nonsense”.

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At the hearing, his lawyer said: "This matter has become somewhat historic.

"He had a mental health breakdown. He was running a business. It had been purchased by him.

"He did not have permission to sublet the property. He did not have permission to sell for money.

"The £2200 has now been returned. He is aware of the serious nature of this. He is currently doing unpaid work and is tagged after an assault.

"He has taken responsibility.

"He started drinking quite heavily and started taking drugs.

"Before this, he was a person who looked after his mental and physical well-being. He has been taking strong medication for his back for five to six years. He has a mobility scooter."

Sheriff Joan Kerr said: "My options are quite limited due to his health. The matter dates back to 2018 and has been ongoing for a number of years.

"I also take on board that the complainers did not lose out financially."

Armstrong was tagged for 29 weeks, which requires him to stay within his home every day between 7pm and 7am.

The sheriff said to him: "If you breach this order, you will be sent to prison."