Press Release

Woman found guilty of benefit fraud

04/04/2008

On Tuesday 1 April a Northampton woman was found guilty of dishonestly claiming more than £2,500 in benefits she was not entitled to.

After pleading not guilty Lorraine Brown (aged 19) of Latymer Court, Northampton was sentenced to a 12 month conditional discharge. She must also pay repay the overpaid benefits.

The case was brought before Northampton Magistrates Court by Northampton Borough Council's benefit fraud team. Miss Brown had been entitled to claim Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit because she was eligible for Income Support. She failed to notify the council when her circumstances changed and continued to claim benefits for a further six months.

Officers at the borough council started an investigation following a referral from the Housing Benefit Matching Service. Miss Brown was later interviewed under caution by the council.

From January 2007 to June 2007 Miss Brown dishonestly claimed £1,258.63 in Housing benefit and £252.39 in Council Tax Benefit.

Councillor Sally Beardsworth, Northampton Borough Council cabinet member for housing said: "Benefit fraud is stealing money intended to help the town's most vulnerable residents. This is dishonest and cannot be tolerated. Northampton Borough Council will continue to take action against anyone who tries to cheat or scam the system to get benefits they aren't entitled to."

If you suspect someone is fraudulently claiming benefits please call the council's confidential benefit fraud hotline on 01604 837320.