Hambleton Council in North Yorkshire has prosecuted a woman from Thirsk for failing to advise the district council about a change in her circumstances while she was claiming benefits.
Clair Metcalf from Sutton was charged with four counts of benefit fraud involving an overpayment of £9,383 in Housing Benefit.
Metcalf pleaded guilty at Northallerton Magistrates’ Court in January and was given a 12-month community order involving 100 hours of unpaid work.
She was also ordered to pay £250 towards legal costs incurred by Hambleton District Council, as well as a victim surcharge of £60.
The council is now seeking recovery of the Housing Benefit overpayments – and is asking the public to report any suspicions of benefit fraud in the area as part of the council’s efforts to crack down on those who commit benefit fraud.
Duncan Lewis Benefit Fraud Lawyers
Duncan Lewis benefit fraud lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving benefit fraud, including charges relating to:
• Bedroom Tax
• Child Tax Credits
• Council Tax
• Disability Living Allowance
• Housing Benefit
• Income Support
• Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Pension Credits
• PIP
• Universal Credits
• Working Tax Credits.
There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and a benefit fraud lawyer can attend interviews under caution with council fraud investigators and DWP investigators to advise on benefit fraud.
For expert legal advice on charges involving allegations of benefit fraud, call Duncan Lewis benefit fraud lawyers on 0333 772 0409.