A FRAUDSTER who embezzled thousands of pounds from a social enterprise by posing as an ex-marine in a “sophisticated” con has been ordered to pay back just £5.

Kevin John Harris, 47, appeared in Newport Crown Court on Friday, for a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing after he was previously jailed for 14 months over five counts of defrauding a social enterprise.

He pleaded guilty to all the charges and and was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court in January.

The offences relate to Harris’ time working for Tower Print, a printing company in Bedwas where he was initially employed as a sales manager.

The court heard Harris was appointed director of a social enterprise called Media Marketing Force Ltd, which was set up by members of Tower Print – a service aimed at supporting vulnerable people and armed forces veterans into employment.

During his sentencing, the court heard that Harris gained the trust of the social enterprise founders by claiming he was an ex-Royal Marine. He then offered to run a course for up to 16 veterans which would be accredited by the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services, a scheme that benefits from military funding.

But between January and March 2015, Harris stole from the social enterprise, which was then forced to close due to financial and reputational damage.

In the hearing on Friday, the court was told Harris benefited by £4,300, but he was ordered to pay back just £5.

Judge Daniel Williams said Harris had “little or no assets”.

Harris, of Dan-Y-Bryn, Pembrey, Burry Port, Carmarthenshire, will need to pay the £5 by July 20 this year.