Published on: December 17, 2025, 06:26h.
Updated on: December 17, 2025, 06:26h.
- Conman on dating platforms targeted vulnerable women, posing as a betting expert
- Fraudulent victims were pressured to liquidate assets and secure loans for fake investments
- Judge condemns prolonged romance scam as callous, calculated, solely for monetary gain
A man identified as Britain’s most notorious romance scammer who drained the life savings of five divorced mothers has been sentenced to 17 years in prison.
Nigel Baker, 56, actively sought out victims on dating apps, falsely presenting himself as a prosperous sports betting professional. In fact, he was a compulsive gambler who recklessly lost over £900K (US$1.14 million) of their funds on betting sites.
From 2012 to 2020, this father of two from Romford, England, encouraged victims to secure loans and sell their homes, insisting that they invest in his “risk-free” betting enterprise, according to court reports.
One that Baker managed faced losses nearing £4 million (US$5 million).
Betrayed Trust
Baker was perceived by his victims as a beacon of hope for love. He promised to build a bright future together while maintaining overlapping relationships with three of the women, ruthlessly exploiting their trust, Judge Charles Falk noted during the proceedings.
He fabricated various excuses to solicit money, claiming he couldn’t feed his children, that his dog needed urgent medical attention, or that he was threatened by a criminal gang demanding £50,000 (US$63K).
The five primary victims included a police officer, an entrepreneur, a nurse, and an accountant. Since Baker’s apprehension, additional individuals have come forward, raising the total amount he allegedly scammed to over £1 million (US$1.27 million), though these claims have not been prosecuted.
“What I believed was love and connection turned out to be manipulation and deceit for monetary gain,” stated one victim in court, labeling Baker as a “dangerous predator, devoid of morals or compassion.”
Trauma Defense
Baker’s attorney contended that he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder due to the Marchioness tragedy, a 1989 boat accident on the River Thames that claimed 51 lives.
However, the judge dismissed this argument, branding Baker a “complete charlatan” during sentencing.
“These actions demonstrate a pervasive and calculated pattern sustained over several years,” he emphasized.
Your intention was solely financial profit. You held no concern for any of your victims, exploiting their trust without remorse.
“Once they had lost everything — or when you believed they had — you would discard them and seek out your next target,” the judge stated further.
“Merry Christmas!” Baker remarked as he was escorted to the cells.