NEWS RELEASES
In court for benefit fraud
19th September 2007
A MAN from Horsham has been in court for receiving more than £7,800 in housing benefit he was not entitled to.
Mr Kevin Phillip Ireland of New Street in Horsham had pleaded guilty at Horsham Magistrates Court on 20 August to offences involving Housing Benefit fraud of £7,803.25.
When claiming housing benefit Mr Ireland had failed to declare that he was living with his partner who was in employment.
Yesterday (18 September 2007), Crawley Magistrates Court imposed a sentence on Mr Ireland of a two year Community Order with a requirement for supervision. It also awarded costs of £200 to Horsham District Council.
Horsham District Council will now start proceedings to recover the full amount of the overpayment.
Horsham District Council’s Fraud Manager, Andy New, commented:
”Horsham District Council takes benefit fraud seriously and this case highlights our continued commitment to prosecute those who deliberately abuse the benefit system.
“This authority is very aware of its requirement to protect public funds and also aims to ensure that benefits are delivered accurately and promptly to those claimants who have a true entitlement to them.”
A confidential Benefit Fraud hotline has been set up by Horsham District Council for reports of suspected false claims - call 01403 215511.
Meanwhile, Horsham District Council is keen to make sure that people get all of the benefits they are genuinely entitled to – call 01403 215359 or visit Horsham District Council's website for details.
Ends
CONTACT: Richard Morris, Communications Manager
Email: richard.morris@horsham.gov.uk