In a shocking betrayal, the founder of a beloved wildlife charity in Rickmansworth has been caught siphoning funds to pay off his son’s drug debts.
Chris Wicks, the 68-year-old mastermind behind the Chris Wicks Wildlife Trust (CWWT), stood before Judge Francis Sheridan and admitted to taking £19,410 from the organization.
On Friday, May 24, Wicks was ordered to repay £4,600 at a rate of £100 per month. The court heard that his charity, once a flourishing haven for wildlife with six trustees and 70 volunteers, began experiencing suspicious PayPal transactions in August 2021. Confronted by the treasurer and trustees a year later, Wicks confessed to using the charity’s funds to rescue his son from a spiraling drug debt.
Judge Sheridan didn't hold back, labeling Wicks' actions as "a more stupid, idiotic thing to do," and telling him bluntly, "You weren’t doing your son any favours." Despite the scathing remarks, the judge chose not to impose a custodial sentence, citing Wicks' previous good character.
"You have thrown away your fine reputation," lamented the judge. "It is a tragedy."
The revelation has left the community in shock and the once-vibrant charity permanently closed, marking a tragic end to what was once a cornerstone of wildlife conservation in Rickmansworth.
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