A local newspaper says a Plymouth lettings agent has been arrested by police on suspicion of theft, fraud and money laundering. 

Last month we reported that Heather Crabb, owner of Drake Homes agency in the Devon city – which manages around 100 properties – claimed to have had a stroke, but issued a statement denying any wrongdoing after her agency was closed for some weeks. 

The statement read: “Due to continued ill health, we are informing you that the portfolio of Drake Homes is being transferred to a reputable agent who will look after your interests. We are in the process of completing your final accounts accordingly and the new agent, who is well established and very experienced will be in touch in due course. Kind regards. Heather.”

Now the Western Evening Herald says Crabb has been arrested, along with an unidentified man, in connection with an investigation into the agency and money owed to clients.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police told the newspaper: “Police have received complaints from a number of landlords in the Plymouth area concerning allegations of financial mismanagement at a property lettings company, also based in Plymouth. A full investigation is ongoing. A 49-year-old woman from Plymouth and a 55-year-old man from Plymouth were arrested on Monday 5 December 2016, on suspicion of theft, fraud and money laundering and bailed for three months pending further enquiries.”

The full newspaper story is here.