Benefit Fraud Clampdown

A Bromsgrove Resident was sentenced on 11 August 2010 at Redditch Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to three charges of claiming more than £4500 in fraudulent benefit payments.

Kerry Bridgwater of Edwin Crescent, Bromsgrove, had dishonestly failed to declare to both Bromsgrove Council and the Department for Work and Pensions that she was working and receiving income. She had also failed to declare that her husband was working. The overpayment of Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Incapacity Benefit totalled £4570.52 covering a period of 25 September 2007 to 4 April 2008.  This full amount of overpaid money will be recovered.

Bridgwater was sentenced to a 12 month community order with 200 hours of unpaid work to be done within the 12 month period, plus £1000 compensation.  No costs were awarded owing to her financial situation.

Portfolio-holder for Resources Cllr Geoff Denaro said: “Benefit recipients must report their true circumstances as soon as any changes occur to their household and financial position.

“We are committed to ensuring that taxpayers’ money is protected, and will as a result, prosecute and publicise cases where the benefit system has been abused. 

“Working in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions ensures that the full value of benefit fraud is highlighted and actioned appropriately.”