Benefit Fraud conviction

Bromsgrove District Council in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions, has brought another successful prosecution against a Bromsgrove resident, for benefit fraud.

Paul Gough, aged 54, of Alten Court, Bromsgrove, was found guilty of two charges of dishonestly failing to notify a change of circumstances, namely that he had capital in excess of prescribed limits whilst claiming Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Income Support

This resulted in an overpayment of Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit totalling £5847.71 and Income Support totalling £5335.30, during the period 30 March 2005 and 30 January 2007.

On 30 June 2010, Redditch Magistrates sentenced Gough to a 12 month community order and community payback of 100 hours within 12 months on each offence concurrent.  He was also ordered to repay the outstanding Income Support overpayment of £5.205.30, and outstanding Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit overpayment of £4,449.84, by way of a compensation order, and pay costs of £100. 

A Bromsgrove District Council spokesperson said: “We are continually advising benefit recipients to report their true circumstances as soon as any changes occur to their household and financial position. This ensures that benefits are paid correctly to those who need them.  Bromsgrove District Council is committed to ensuring that taxpayers’ money is protected and will therefore 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”.

Any suspected fraud can be reported to Bromsgrove District Council on 01527 881221, by e-mail to fraud@bromsgrove.gov.uk or by entering the details on the Fraud Referral form on the Council’s website http://www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/.