Her annual income was estimated to be around £50,000, and she also earned extra income by renting out a further property in Stratford, east London. She was able to buy a villa in Cyprus and invest in a time-share apartment in Orlando, Florida.
The mother of two first claimed for cash in November 2001 when she was genuinely out of work, but had failed to let the authorities know about her changed circumstances.
Judge John Hand QC handed her a 12-month jail sentence suspended for two years. She is also expected to be struck off as an accountant.
Ms Richards was caught out when investigators from the DWP found records of her accountancy work on her personal computer. She also falsely claimed she was a single parent, but was actually living with partner Rodney Bailey, who is listed online as the managing director of the company she works for, Account For It Ltd. The company is also listed as being based out of her Monkswood Avenue home on its website.
- These people do it for the money. So hit them in the pocket. It was money that motivated them, and a financial penalty will help to deter them.
People convicted of benefit fraud who don't receive a custodial sentence should have to do unpaid work.
Benefit thieves should also have to repay twice what they've stolen, and should not be eligible for any further benefits – including tax credits - until they have. A confiscation order should be automatic and immediate.
If you don't punish people who are convicted of an easy crime, the offence will continue to look attractive.
Theresa May, please note. Some local authorities think benefit fraud costs each household £80-£100 a year. It's probably nearer £150-£175.
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