Joint investigations between the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Gosport Borough Council Counter Fraud teams have resulted in three successful prosecutions for offences committed under the Social Security Administration Act 1992.
Vernon White (41) of Virginia Park Road Gosport, pleaded guilty to offences in that he had knowingly, falsely claimed Income Support and Council Tax Benefit by failing to declare to the Department for Work & Pensions or Gosport Borough Council that he had capital and investments over the capital limit. This resulted in an overpayment of over £19,000.
White was sentenced to 4 months imprisonment suspended for 12 months.
Clive Gill (35) formerly of Queens Road Gosport, pleaded guilty to 3 offences in that he had dishonestly, falsely claimed Income Support, Housing and Council Tax Benefit by failing to inform the Department for Work & Pensions or Gosport Borough Council that he was employed. This resulted in an overpayment of over £4,500.
Gill was sentenced to a 12 month community order and 100 hours unpaid work.
Clare Haydon (22) of Franklin Road Gosport, pleaded guilty to 3 offences, in that she had dishonestly, falsely claimed Income Support, Housing and Council Tax Benefit by failing to inform the Department for Work & Pensions or Gosport Borough Council that she was employed. This resulted in an overpayment of over £2,700.
Haydon was sentenced to a 12 month conditional discharge.
In addition to sentencing, all three offenders must pay back all overpayments received to both the Department for Work & Pensions and Gosport Borough Council.
If you know of someone who is receiving benefits to which they are not entitled, then call the 24-hour Benefit Investigation Hotline.
All information received is treated in the strictest confidence, so go on – do the right thing and telephone Tel: 023 92 545 545 now!
