Mearns founded Gmund Cars in 2000 and had run a legitimate business buying, selling and restoring Porsche cars, but began operating fraudulently in 2015, the court heard.
Police received 14 separate reports of fraud between October 2017 and July 2019.
He was arrested in July 2019, and told the police in an interview in December 2020 that his business was struggling and he wanted to trade out of debt.
Less than a fortnight after his arrest he was made bankrupt.
He began working as a labourer and a mechanic and volunteered for the RNLI in Llandudno.
In December 2024 he was recognised by the Welsh Parliament for saving a seal pup that had made its way across a busy road and onto a pavement.
The court heard Mearns was not enriching a lavish lifestyle and had shown genuine remorse.
“You undertook the fraud not for personal gain but trying to keep your business afloat, but doing so fraudulently,” said Judge Richardson, who accepted mitigation for his positive character and lack of previous convictions.
“Fraud is a serious crime. People have lost out here and have lost prized possessions.
“I am afraid you are the architect of your own misfortune.”
North Yorkshire Police staff investigator Corrina Graham-Merrett said the investigation had lasted many years.
“Mearns lied to his customers time and time again. Thankfully, his offending was brought to a stop, and we have worked tirelessly to secure evidence against him.
“The financial and emotional impact on his victims has been nothing short of devastating, and will no doubt continue for them whilst civil cases are pursued to have vehicles repatriated.
“It is right that he now faces the consequences for his actions.”
