Benefit Fraudsters Handed Jail Sentences

People from different areas of NI have been sentenced to terms of imprisonment and fines for defrauding the Government over benefits being claimed illegally.

As part of a continuing crackdown, three people were convicted at Craigavon Magistrates' court on Monday for claiming benefits they were not entitled to.

Bridget Robinson (53) of Brookehill, Lurgan claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £3,284 while failing to declare capital.

She was given a one-month custodial sentence suspended for 12 months.

John Parnham (60) of Clonmeen, Drumgor claimed Income Support, Incapacity Benefit and Housing Benefit totalling £6,513 while failing to declare employment.

He was given a one-month custodial sentence suspended for 12 months and ordered to pay court costs of £38.

James Hughes (49) of Ballyoran Park, Portadown claimed Income Support totalling £11,793 while failing to declare capital. He was given an 18-month custodial sentence suspended for two years and ordered to pay court costs of £50.

Meanwhile, four people were convicted at Belfast Magistrates' court on the same day.

Hazel Scott (50) of Syringa Street, Belfast claimed Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £10,707 while failing to declare employment.

She was also given gaol term and handed down a three-month prison sentence suspended for 12 months and ordered to pay court costs of £44.

Patricia Doran (46) of Cupar Street, Belfast claimed Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support, Carers Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £12,531 while failing to declare employment. She was given 120 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £49.

Raymond Davey (38) of Hillcrest Mews, Craigavon claimed Incapacity Benefit totalling £6,584 while failing to declare employment. He was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £33.

Peter McKenna (62) of Mill Valley North, Belfast was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £22 for wrongful encashment of Pension Credit totalling £220.

All are also required to repay any money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

(LB/BMcC)