Fugitive ‘Ian Beale lookalike’ needed for ‘conning grannies out of £400k’
John Eric Wells, dubbed the ‘Casanova Conman’, has been on the run for nearly seven years after being wanted in connection with romance frauds against three elderly women
John Eric Wells, dubbed the ‘Casanova Conman’ has been on the run for nearly seven years
Police are continuing to hunt for an Ian Beale doppelganger who has been on the run for seven years. South Yorkshire Police initially issued an appeal for ‘Casanova Conman’ John Eric Wells, thought to be in his 60s, back in September 2019.
Despite bearing a striking resemblance to one of British television’s most recognisable figures – portrayed by Adam Woodyatt on EastEnders he’s succeeded in dodging capture.
Wells, who is also thought to use the aliases Howard Walmsley and Howard Hemmings, is wanted in connection with three romance scams which saw vulnerable pensponers allegedly swindled out of £400k.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police today (Mon) confirmed Wells remained at large, stating: “Officers are still appealing for information about the whereabouts of wanted man John Eric Wells.”
It is alleged the fraudster from Doncaster, South Yorks. , stripped his three elderly targets of their life savings by charming them before embarking on lavish spending sprees with their cash.
The crimes are reported to have occurred from September 2014 onwards – the victims resided in various locations across the UK including Doncaster, Sussex and London.
Victim Hazel Wilkins featured on This Morning in 2019 to reveal how she encountered Wells online.
He began requesting money when they started a relationship in 2014 and subsequently secured loans in her name before vanishing, leaving her drowning in debt. Wells had previously served a three-year prison sentence for fabricating an £8.9million lottery victory, later asserting that the fraud was a desperate bid to salvage his marriage.
He swindled banks, a solicitor, an architect, a car company and two female friends out of a total of £53,000. The scheme was adapted into the film Can’t Buy Me Love, written by EastEnders’ scribe Tony Jordan and featuring Martin Kemp.
Judge Jane Shipley, who sentenced him at Sheffield Crown Court in 2001, accused him of inhabiting a ‘fantasy world’.
She further commented: “You wanted to aspire to the high life and appear successful, but you seem to lack what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur.”
In 2024, a representative for South Yorkshire Police stated: “Police would like to hear from anyone who has seen or spoken to Wells recently, or has information which may help officers with their enquiries.
“It is possible Wells is currently residing outside the UK. If you spot him, or you have any information which may assist, please ring South Yorkshire Police on 101.”
