Nigel James Baker, a 56-year-old man, received a seventeen-year prison sentence after being found guilty of defrauding five women out of over £900,000. The elaborate scheme, meticulously carried out over years, funded a devastating gambling addiction that spiraled out of control.
The Snaresbrook Crown Court heard how Baker preyed on vulnerable women he met through dating applications, presenting a carefully constructed facade of a successful businessman. He skillfully manipulated his victims, weaving tales of a shared future built on trust and affection.
As custody officers led him away after sentencing, Baker shockingly uttered “Merry Christmas” from the dock, a callous display that further wounded those he had betrayed. The gesture underscored a complete lack of remorse for the emotional and financial devastation he caused.
Judge Charles Falk condemned Baker as a “complete charlatan” who “mercilessly and cynically exploited the trust of his victims.” The court learned Baker convinced women to relinquish staggering sums of money, even encouraging some to take out loans exceeding £200,000, falsely promising a secure investment.
The reality was far darker. Baker misrepresented the destination of the funds, claiming they were being invested in financial markets when, in truth, they were rapidly disappearing through relentless gambling. One account linked to him showed losses exceeding £4 million.
His deception extended to terrifying threats, with Baker allegedly telling one victim a criminal gang threatened his life unless a £50,000 payment was made. This manipulation showcased the depths of his cruelty and the lengths he would go to maintain control.
The judge detailed Baker’s calculated approach, stating he “portrayed himself as a successful businessman…looking for a special woman to comfort you and become your partner.” He promised marriage and a shared, idyllic future, a promise built entirely on lies.
The emotional scars left on the victims were profound. One, a former police officer, described Baker as a “dangerous predator” who left her feeling “violated in a way that is difficult to put into words.” The realization of his betrayal was a deeply traumatic experience.
The seventeen-year sentence is believed to be among the longest ever handed down in a UK romance fraud case, reflecting the severity of Baker’s crimes and the extensive damage he inflicted. It serves as a stark warning about the dangers lurking within online dating and the devastating consequences of romance fraud.
