Self-employed Jonathan Wright from Rotherham, admitted failing to declare five years’ income – totalling more than £530,000 – to HMRC at Leeds Crown Court in March 2016.

Wright’s time under HMRC’s radar was first brought to an end by a taskforce set up to examine the tax affairs of self-employed salespeople working in the double glazing industry.

During interview, in February 2015, Wright said he believed his taxes were deducted ‘at source’, and that he wasn’t required to submit a self assessment return.

Wright pleaded guilty to nine counts of being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of income tax and VAT at Leeds Crown Court in March 2016. At the time, his sentencing was postponed for six months to allow him to repay the money, but Wright went on to offend further, submitting a false VAT return in a plot to reduce his debt to HMRC by £20,346.

The salesman answered ‘no comment’ to all questions when interviewed for a second time in September 2016. He went on to plead guilty to two further counts of fraudulent evasion in November 2016 and has been given a 12 month prison sentence.

Sandra Smith, assistant director, fraud investigation service, HMRC, said: ‘Wright was given an opportunity to make good what he owed. Instead, he stole yet more money from the taxpayer. He blew his chance, and that greed and naivety has cost him his liberty.’

Wright made a repayment of £61,200 after his conviction and before the new offences came to light.

HMRC has launched over 140 taskforces since 2011 which have brought in some £404m.