Tinder Swindler sentenced for defrauding former partner

Peter Gray, known as the "Tinder Swindler," has been sentenced to prison again after defrauding a former partner of £50,000. Gray, 35, appeared via video link from HMP Leeds at Leeds Crown Court on March 19. His ex-partner shared her ordeal of being misled by him, who took out loans and contracts in her name without her knowledge. During their relationship, which began in November 2020, Gray convinced her to take out a loan for property he did not own. He promised to pay her back, but he never did. He also persuaded her to spend additional money on household expenses and even took her credit card without permission. His actions left her in financial distress. The court learned that Gray had a history of similar fraudulent activities and had previously been convicted for defrauding others. Prosecutor Jordan Millican stated that Gray's criminal behavior caused significant emotional and financial harm to his victims. His ex-partner revealed she learned of Gray fathering a child with another woman through a TV report, which added to her distress. Judge Ray Singh sentenced Gray to 28 more months in prison after previously serving 56 months for other fraud crimes. The judge criticized Gray for trying to deceive the court and described his actions as "wicked" and manipulative. The judge emphasized that Gray left a "trail of destruction" in his wake and warned that his victims continue to struggle with the fallout of his deceit.