Landlord and property manager prosecuted for "despicable" illegal eviction of family

Wisbech Construction Ltd director, Jamie Punton, and his property manager and local businessman Arslan Anjum, both from Wisbech, were found guilty of unlawfully evicting a tenant from a property in Cherry Road.

The eviction, which took place in February 2024, left the family - including young children - without shelter and their belongings scattered on the driveway.

Police who attended the scene captured body-worn camera footage that showed the defendants being aggressive and verbally abusive towards the family.

Fenland District Council's Private Sector Housing team carried out a detailed 14-month investigation, gathering evidence and supporting the affected family.

At Peterborough Magistrates' Court on 25 April 2025, the Judge condemned the actions of Mr Punton and Mr Anjum, saying: "This is a despicable act, and something that is quite wicked when you think about the impact that it has had. It must have been confusing and frightening for them."

Mr Punton was sentenced to a three-month custodial sentence, suspended for 18 months, and must adhere to an electronically monitored curfew from 7pm to 7am. Mr Anjum was sentenced to 160 hours of unpaid community work. Both defendants were ordered to pay the Council's prosecution costs of £9,592.44 equally between them. 

Cllr Gary Christy, Fenland District Council's Cabinet member for housing enforcement, said: "This outcome sends a clear message to landlords and letting agents that illegal evictions will not be tolerated in Fenland. I want to commend the exceptional work of our Private Sector Housing team, who navigated a highly complex and sensitive case over 14 months. Their efforts in supporting the tenant, particularly in overcoming language barriers and ensuring the victim remained engaged, were vital in securing this conviction."

The Council's prosecuting barrister, Carolyn Bracken, added: "This has not been a straightforward investigation and creating and maintaining a positive and supportive relationship with the tenant was key to the prosecution's success. It is obvious from the Judge's sentencing remarks how valuable the victim's personal statement was in influencing sentence."

• We regulate private rented housing to ensure tenants have fair, safe and legal living conditions - and to protect them from unlawful evictions. If you're experiencing housing issues or need advice, please get in touch. Visit Housing Advice and Support or email privatesectorhousing@fenland.gov.uk for further advice.

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May 2025