Mortgage fraud suspect may have fled abroad

Richard Ardolino, who is originally from the Leeds area, has been linked to 14 offences of mortgage fraud and money laundering.

The 36-year-old’s last known address was in Normanton, West Yorkshire, but last night West Midlands Police said they believe he may now be living abroad.

Det Cons Greg Evans, from West Midlands Regional Asset Recovery Team, said last night: “Ardolino has many associates and relatives in Leeds and is well known in and around the area.

“We also believe he has connections in the Midlands, Manchester, Cyprus and the Middle East.

“It is thought he travelled outside the United Kingdom in February 2011.”

Ardolino is described as around 6ft tall, with short brown receding hair and as being of proportionate build.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said yesterday Ardolino was wanted in connection with fraud offences allegedly committed between April 2005 and the end of 2007.

Last night the West Midlands Police spokesman urged anyone with any information about Richard Ardolino’s whereabouts to contact them.

“Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Richard Ardolino should call West Midlands Police on 0345 113 5000 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111,” the police spokesman said yesterday.

Nine other people have already been charged with various offences in connection with the investigation.