Benefit fraudster to repay cash
A benefits cheat who falsely claimed almost £5,500 in benefits has been ordered to repay the money she stole.
Cheryl Anne Johnson, 41, of Walton Avenue, Penwortham, pleaded guilty to four offences when she appeared at Leyland Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
She admitted claiming £2,191 Housing Benefit, £559 Council Tax Benefit and £2,687 Income Support and Disability Living Allowance that she was not entitled to.
She was also sentenced to 12 months conditional discharge and ordered to pay £85 costs.
Coun Phil Hamman, South Ribble Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for shared services and corporate support, said: “We take benefit fraud very seriously and go above and beyond to bring fraudsters to justice.
“We have a duty to protect our taxpayers and we will chase every last penny falsely claimed as that is money that could be spent on services for our law-abiding residents.
“We’re also keen to ensure that everyone who is rightfully entitled to benefits knows how to claim them. If you think you may be eligible to receive housing benefit or council tax benefit you should call us for advice.”
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Weather for Preston
Sunday 19 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 10 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 11 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: West
