Jack Watkin, the ‘British Kardashian’, Faces Jail After £200k Scandal

A shocking fraud case emerged this week when 26-year-old Jack Watkin—once known as a “rich kid of Instagram”—admitted scamming friends, relatives, and associates out of nearly £200,000. He posed as a high-end handbag trader. Now, following a guilty plea, he may face jail time.

How the Fraud Operated: Fake Handbag Business and Financial Deception

Watkin pretended to be a millionaire. He claimed he bought and sold limited-edition Hermes handbags. He even persuaded his own father to invest. Victims were told they’d receive profits or receive the luxury items themselves. None of it happened.

Lavish Lifestyle: Dorchester Hotel, Harrods, Rolls‑Royce Chauffeur

Instead of using the funds for handbags, Watkin funded himself lavishly. For six months, he stayed at the five‑star Dorchester Hotel—he racked up a £136,000 bill. He also spent over £22,000 on chauffeur-driven Rolls‑Royce travel. And he explored Harrods, spending nearly £68,000.

Arrest, Admission, and Court Pleas

In March, Watkin was arrested by Cheshire police. He initially denied wrongdoing. He later changed his plea. Yesterday, at Chester Crown Court, he admitted six counts of fraud for deceiving six victims between December 2019 and August 2024. The total fraud reached more than £195,000. Other fraud and theft charges remain on his record.

Hidden Crimes Revealed: Child-Pornography Convictions

During the investigation, police found indecent images on his phone. Earlier this year, Watkin was convicted at the same court for child pornography offences—five counts of making such images, two counts of possession, plus a prohibited image and one involving extreme content. He’ll be sentenced in September for both sets of offences.

Background and Early Fame: Rich Kids of Instagram to Exclusive Lifestyle

Watkin rose to fame in 2016 on the Channel 4 series Rich Kids of Instagram. He claimed his family was like the Kardashians. He boasted a fleet of luxury cars, private jets, and a £500,000 Bulgari watch. He also said he lived in a mansion in Alderley Edge.

Local sources say Watkin’s father, Jason, cut him off financially in 2019 after refusing to support his extravagant lifestyle. That’s when Watkin started his fraudulent handbag venture.

Victims Speak: Investment Losses, Promised Bags Never Delivered

Victims came forward during the trial. Business owner Christine Colbert lost £43,800. Friend Hannah Jakes was out £98,500. Dad Jason Watkin lost £14,000. Other victims included businessman James Irlam (£24,500) and Harrods barman Andor Farkas (£14,000). A final victim lost £840 in an online transaction.

The Seized Haul: Designer Clothing and Accessories

When police raided Watkin’s storage unit and home in Knightsbridge, they found a designer haul—Hermes plates, Christian Dior bags, Gucci fur boots, a Richard Mille watch, Versace tracksuits and hoodies, Chanel trainers, Louboutin boots, and more.

Judge’s Warning: Jail Imminent

Judge Simon Berkson called his crimes “serious” and said a prison sentence was inevitable. He noted Watkin already had a conviction for child pornography. Watkin also has a previous drink-driving conviction.

Cheshire Police: Fraudster Fueled by Social Media Persona

Detective Constable Gareth Yates said Watkin used social media to project wealth and build trust. He called him “Cheshire’s Kardashian.” Senior Crown Prosecutor Laura Atherton described him as “incredibly charismatic” and able to deceive victims over several years.