John Eric Wells remains at large, a phantom echoing a familiar face. His striking resemblance to a well-known British television actor has complicated the search, allowing him to seemingly melt into the background despite being a wanted man.
Wells is accused of systematically dismantling the financial security of three vulnerable, elderly women. He didn’t just take their money; he allegedly wove elaborate lies, captivating them before draining their life savings in a calculated spree of deception.
The alleged crimes began in September 2014 and spanned across the United Kingdom, impacting victims in Doncaster, Sussex, and London. Each woman, believing she’d found companionship, was instead targeted by a master manipulator.
Hazel Wilkins bravely shared her story on national television, detailing the devastating impact of Wells’ betrayal. She recounted meeting him online, a seemingly innocent connection that quickly spiraled into a nightmare of financial ruin and emotional heartbreak.
He initially requested small sums, gradually escalating his demands as their relationship deepened. Then came the loans taken out in her name, a final act of exploitation before he vanished, leaving Wilkins burdened with insurmountable debt.
This isn’t Wells’ first encounter with the law. Years earlier, in 2001, he received a three-year prison sentence for fabricating an £8.9 million lottery win. He claimed the elaborate scheme was a desperate attempt to salvage his marriage.
The audacious fraud involved deceiving banks, legal professionals, architects, and even close friends, resulting in a total loss of £53,000 to his victims. The story was so compelling it was adapted into a film, “Can’t Buy Me Love,” penned by a writer from the popular television drama, EastEnders, and starring a prominent actor.
The judge presiding over his 2001 case described Wells as living in a “fantasy world,” driven by a desire for a lavish lifestyle he couldn’t legitimately achieve. She observed a fundamental lack of entrepreneurial spirit masked by a relentless pursuit of appearing successful.
As of recently, South Yorkshire Police continue to appeal to the public for any information regarding Wells’ whereabouts. Authorities haven’t ruled out the possibility that he has fled the country, extending the search internationally.
Anyone with information, no matter how small, is urged to contact the South Yorkshire Police. The hope remains that bringing Wells to justice will offer some measure of closure to his alleged victims and prevent further harm.
