Warning on benefits cheats

Staffordshire benefit cheats have been warned they will be caught as part of a crackdown on fraud.

Four benefit cheats were sentenced recently as part of efforts to stamp out problems with people playing the system in Lichfield.

The district council wants these to be a warning to others. Councillor Colin Greatorex, cabinet member for finance, revenues and benefits, said: "Lichfield District Council is delighted that these cases have led to successful prosecutions. We hope this will deter others.

"If you receive housing or council tax benefit, it is vital that you keep in touch with the revenues and benefits team on 01543 308900 and notify them immediately of any change in your circumstances."

Margaret Jones, of Green Court, Birmingham Road, Lichfield admitted one charge of benefit fraud when she appeared at Tamworth Magistrates Court in September. She had failed to declare she was employed by Morrisons supermarket and her wages were paid into an undisclosed building society account so she was overpaid £3,449.07 in housing and council tax benefit.

She was fined £100 and ordered to pay £350 costs.

Kevin Marshall, of Needwood Hill, Lichfield, also pleaded guilty to two charges of benefit fraud at the same court last month. He had failed to tell Lichfield District Council he was in receipt of Tax Credits and was subsequently overpaid £1,132.38 in housing and council tax benefit.

He was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £350 in costs. He is also paying the money he fraudulently received back to the council.

Kerry Collinson, of Deykin Road, Lichfield, also admitted benefit fraud after failing to tell Lichfield District Council promptly that she had changed employment and received an increase in earnings.

She had been overpaid £1,803.11 in housing and tax benefit and was given an 18-month conditional discharge, ordered to pay £200 in costs. Earlier this month Roy Cameron, of Lichfield Road, Burntwood, admitted three charges of benefit fraud after failing to declare he held capital.

He was overpaid £2,305.08 in council tax benefit so was fined £600 and ordered to pay £250 in costs. He has repaid the money he received fraudulently. To report any potential fraudulent claims call the National Fraud Hotline confidentially on 0800 7831030.