Emma Legg appeared at Mid Sussex Magistrates’ Court for housing and council tax benefit fraud.
Ms Legg pleaded guilty to failing to disclose that she had left her privately rented accommodation, for which she was receiving housing and council tax benefit.
Neighbours told the council the property had been empty and that she was living with her boyfriend in Chichester.
Crawley Borough Council proved Ms Legg had left the Crawley property but had continued to claim benefit for it as if she was still living there.
In total, Ms Legg fraudulently claimed £2,500 in housing and council tax benefits which she must repay to the council. She was also fined £127 and was ordered to pay costs of £100.
Meichelle Ramsey also appeared at Mid Sussex Magistrates’ Court for benefit fraud.
She pleaded guilty to failing to declare she was in receipt of tax credits and was sentenced to a 12-month conditional discharge.
Crawley Borough Council was able to prove Meichelle Ramsey had failed to declare she was receiving up to £250 in tax credit payments every week.
Between March 2010 and November 2010 she had been over-paid £4,500 in benefits, which is being recovered by the council.
Cllr Lee Gilroy, Cabinet member for housing at Crawley Borough Council, said: “The council takes a very serious view of people who claim benefits when they are not entitled to them.
“The council’s fraud team works hard to prevent, detect and investigate all fraud committed against the council.
“Those claiming benefits should contact us immediately if their circumstances change.”
- The council may take a very serious view of benefit fraud, but clearly the courts don't. The court knows the community took a dim view of Ms Legg's benefit fraud - her neighbours reported her. The council responded to their voters' concerns.
The court didn't. The judiciary often seem concerned to administer nominal punishments which won't trouble the judicial system to enforce.
They have no deterrent effect.
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