Darren Hodes

This case was brought against the associated individual under paragraph 5.8.12 of the 15th edition of the Code of Practice (“the Code”).  

The tribunal (‘the Tribunal’) has been asked to consider imposing a prohibition against Mr Darren Hodes, pursuant to paragraph 5.8.5(g) of the Code. 

The case related to a previous adjudication against TCS Combined Solutions Limited (the “Merchant”) (case reference 150301). The previous adjudication involved an alert subscription service and was considered on the 9 and 10 December 2020. A review adjudication took place on 14 June 2021. The Tribunal that considered the case on 9 and 10 December 2020 recommended the prohibition of Mr Hodes, the primary contact on the Phone-paid Services Authority Registration Scheme and sole director of the Merchant. 

The Tribunal decided (unanimously) to prohibit Ms Hodes from providing, or having any involvement in, any premium rate service in the UK for a period of five years. The Tribunal considered that such a prohibition was appropriate, proportionate and justified due to the proven conduct of the Merchant and the Tribunal’s finding that Mr Hodes was knowingly involved in the same. The Tribunal took into account the deterrent effect of the sanction and the need to ensure that such non-compliant conduct would not be repeated by Mr Hodes. 

Administrative charge recommendation: 100%