Financial worker paid himself £18k from company accounts

Gary Hughes, of Smithy Lane, Much Hoole, near Preston, was expected to safeguard the financial interests of MESM Ltd, a Chorley-based medical equipment supply firm that supports clinical trials in more than 80 countries.

But Hughes, who was an employee of the firm, paid himself around £18,000 of the firm’s money as he abused his position intending to make a gain for himself, Preston Magistrates’ Court heard.

The 23-year-old, who attended court with his parents, committed the offences between April 24, 2014 and September 26 last year.

Prosecuting, Lynne Sayers said: “ The amount of the charge means it needs to 
be dealt with at the Crown Court. It amounts to around £18,000.”

It is understood the defendant was employed by MESM for roughly five years.

Defending, Julie Moss said: “There were a number of payments made from company’s bank account into Mr Hughes’ bank account that he accepts he had made, using a code he had been provided with as an employee to do those transactions.

“His culpability may be deemed to be high because of the abuse of his position of trust.”

The case was committed to Preston Crown Court for sentence.

Hughes was given conditional bail with a term not to have access to any financial accounting system during course of any employment.

Today the managing director of MESM, David Parry said: “We are pleased our internal procedures picked up the offences.”

Hughes is expected to appear for sentence on August 2.