News

Reginald Gill, prosecuted by the Borough of Poole for fraudulent claims that he could cure cancer, was sentenced to 12-months imprisonment today.

The case follows the death of Stephen Hall, aged 43, from pancreatic cancer.

Officers from the Borough of Poole's Consumer Protection Services carried out the investigation, which was supported by medical experts and the Medical Devices Agency (A body which controls the safety and efficacy of medical equipment). Charges were brought under the Trade Descriptions Act and related to the supply of a briefcase-sized machine that Mr Gill claimed could cure cancer. Mr Gill sold the machine for £2500.

Peter Pawlowski, Head of Consumer Protection Services, Borough of Poole, said: "We are delighted that the judge has seen fit to pass a custodial sentence upon Reginald Gill. Any individual who can carry out such an appalling deception deserves to be severely punished. I hope this sentence sends out a clear message to fraudsters that they can and will be detected and punished. I also hope it encourages anyone who may fall foul of these persuasive con-men to follow the brave example of the Hall family. They have come forward in the most trying of circumstances and it is thanks to their courage that we have been able to successfully prosecute Gill.

Clearly this equipment was neither designed nor manufactured to play any part in cancer treatment. It is difficult to think of a more despicable crime than preying on the natural desperation of those suffering from terminal cancer. Particularly when this was for personal financial gain. Reputable complementary medicine can play an important supportive part in the treatment of some conditions. Sadly Mr Gill's treatment was the work of a charlatan. Patients need to conduct thorough research and consult with the recognised medical experts before stepping outside mainstream medicine.

I must once again thank the Hall family for their brave decision to personally give evidence in this case, without their help this man may have continued to prey upon people in difficult circumstances. I hope the outcome of this case will help them to move forward and give them some comfort knowing that no-one else will be deceived by Reginald Gill."