HE led a life that most teenagers only dream about.

He thought nothing of hiring a stretch limo to take his mates for a night out or jetting off to New York for a luxury break.

But this Gwent 17-year-old hadn't found wealth with a lottery win or through rich parents - he got it by duping unsuspecting users of Internet auction site eBay.

The Pontypool teen, who cannot be named, said he couldn't stop defrauding his victims because he was "addicted" to the website. He ended up with £45,000 in various bank accounts - and a lifestyle to match.

The teenager (pictured) pleaded guilty to 21 charges of fraud at Cwmbran youth court.

Magistrates were asked to take a further 64 fraud offences into consideration.

Prosecutor Paul Moore told the court the teenager admitted to police he was "living the good life", during a 13- month spending spree.

Mr Moore told magistrates the teenager continued to offend even after he was arrested twice, in January, and April 2004, and placed on police bail.

"He was strongly advised to cease his activities, but it became clear further offences had been on-going," said Mr Moore.

He described how the youth advertised non-existent items ranging from mobile phones to computer game consoles, on the eBay site.

"Items listed for sale have never been in his possession," said Mr Moore.

Magistrates were told the youth set up three bank accounts to handle cash, which he obtained via bank transfer. One victim lost as much as £2,500. Some of the estimated 100 victims, from all over the UK, said he taunted them, admitting he'd spent their money.

The court heard the first complaint was made in October 2003, and settled out of court. But further complaints followed, leading to a search warrant and arrest in January 2004.

"He stated he was addicted to this activity - it gave him a buzz," said Mr Moore.

The youth has been convicted of 21 charges of fraud, amounting to £16,105. He asked for a further 64 charges to be taken into consideration, amounting to £28,860.

He will be sentenced at a later date at crown court.