A former police officer has been sentenced to six years in prison for orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that defrauded thousands of individuals connected to a horse racing betting syndicate. Michael Stanley confessed to misappropriating funds from members of the Layezy Racing Syndicate over several years, and he was arrested in 2019 after his deceitful activities came to light.

Among those affected by Stanley's actions was Terry Wildey, a retired hairdresser from Kent. Wildey revealed that he and his family had invested a staggering £200,000 in the betting scheme, having been encouraged by Stanley to persuade his relatives to join in. Reflecting on his experience, Wildey expressed his deep sense of betrayal, stating, "He's a rat, isn't he?"

Stanley's lavish lifestyle was built on the backs of those he deceived, leading to a significant impact on the lives of many who trusted him. His sentencing at Maidstone Crown Court serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such fraudulent behavior.