Benefit cheats told it’s pay-back time

Reporter: Richard Hooton
Date online: 20 August 2009

OLDHAM Council has successfully prosecuted three benefit cheats who pocketed almost £11,000 in overpayments.

Its Counter Fraud team investigated and compiled the cases, which went before Oldham Magistrates Court, and reclaimed the cash.

Alan Walker, of Edge Lane Road, admitted making false representation to obtain housing benefit and council tax benefit. Officers found he had failed to declare his true capital, resulting in overpayments in excess of £8,000.

He was sentenced to a 12-month community order and a three-month curfew between 7.30pm and 7am and ordered to repay the overpayment — plus costs of £485 — within 28 days.

Jhunu Paul, of Cranbrook Street, admitted one offence of dishonesty under the Social Security Administration Act 1992 of providing false information to obtain benefits. Officers found he was overpaid council tax benefit by £2,116 between February, 2002 and August, 2008.

Paul was ordered to carry out 110 hours of unpaid work. He must also repay the money fraudulently gained, plus costs of £485.

Colin Foden, of Derwent Walk, failed to provide details of his tax credit award while claiming housing and council tax benefits — running up a £647 overpayment.

He pleaded not guilty but was convicted of failing to declare a change in circumstances under Section 112 of the Social Security Administration Act.

Foden was sentenced to a 12-month conditional discharge and must repay the overpaid benefit, plus £200 in costs.

Councillor Lynne Thompson, cabinet member for finance and resources, said: “Oldham Council is committed to fighting fraud and reducing errors in the benefits system.

“It is crucial that residents tell us immediately if their circumstances change while they are claiming housing benefit and council tax benefit.

“The benefits system is in place to help those people who genuinely need them — not fraudsters. Cases such as these mean honest taxpayers end up subsidising cheats and we will not hesitate to prosecute where appropriate.”