Thomas Godden, 26, of no fixed address, carried out a series of frauds between July 2022 and November 2024, stealing a total of £28,488 from three men. He exploited their trust and emotional vulnerability, with one victim losing over £26,000.

An investigation by the City of London Police revealed that Godden contacted his victims through Tinder and Bumble, posing as a gay man looking for a committed relationship. In reality, he was heterosexual and already in a relationship at the time. Two of the victims were identified as vulnerable and on the autism spectrum.

Detective Constable Melissa Morgan from the force’s Fraud Operations team said:

“Godden deliberately targeted men who were seeking companionship and a genuine emotional connection. He abused their trust, manipulated their vulnerabilities and caused significant financial and emotional harm.

“This was a calculated pattern of offending, not a misunderstanding or a civil dispute, but a clear case of fraud by false representation.”

A Bumble spokesperson said the company was deeply concerned by the case and emphasised that user safety is a priority. They highlighted warning signs of romance scams, including requests for money, pressure to move conversations off the platform, and reluctance to meet in person.

After quickly building what his victims believed were romantic relationships, Godden persuaded them to send him money for living expenses, travel, and other costs, falsely promising repayment. Instead, he used the funds to support his own lifestyle. The losses were as follows:

  • Victim A: £1,869.90 (July–August 2022)
  • Victim B: £135.50 (November–December 2022)
  • Victim C: £26,483.06 (September 2022–November 2024), leaving them with significant debt

When victims asked for repayment, Godden became aggressive, made excuses, or threatened to cut contact. In some cases, he used emotional manipulation, including threats of self-harm, to maintain control.

The fraud came to light after victims reported their concerns and financial losses to Action Fraud (now replaced by the Report Fraud service). The reports were passed to the City of London Police, which launched the investigation.

Digital evidence showed Godden was actively using dating apps to obtain money, including conducting online searches such as “Can you go to jail for romance scamming?” and “Can you go the police if someone owes you money?” Although two victims were reimbursed by their banks, one received no compensation and was left in significant debt.

Godden admitted three counts of fraud by false representation in December 2025. He was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on 17 February 2026.

Man on a messaging app

How to stay safe from romance fraud

  • Never send money to someone you’ve only met online, regardless of their story.
  • Take time to get to know people properly and verify their identity, including checking profile pictures online.
  • Speak to trusted friends or family if you are unsure about a situation.

If you have been a victim

Contact your bank immediately to limit further losses. Check your credit file regularly if you’ve shared personal information. Be wary of anyone offering to recover lost money for you.

Reporting fraud

If you believe you have been a victim of romance fraud, you are not alone. You can report it via the reporting hub on 0300 123 2040 or online at reportfraud.police.uk. In Scotland, contact Police Scotland on 101.

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