Sheriff found guilty of fraud

A FORMER Sheriff of Nottingham was yesterday found guilty of masterminding a fraud to steal thousands of pounds from public funds.

Shaukat Khan used his office to steal pounds 10,681 after forging signatures on expenses cheques and making false expenses claims, the court had heard. The jury at Birmingham Crown Court took nearly three days to find Khan guilty on seven charges of fraud and four charges of theft.

Julian Baughan QC, for the prosecution, had told the jury that Khan, also a Nottingham city councillor, transferred a large amount of grant aid, intended for community groups, into his own bank account.

The 44-year-old father of four was appointed Sheriff in May 1991.

The judge adjourned sentencing until the week of 5 July. Khan was remanded in custody until pounds 20,000 could be raised as bail sureties.