Shropshire woman prosecuted for benefit fraud

A Shropshire woman has been prosecuted for benefit fraud following an investigation by Shropshire Council.

Judith Blakeway, 74, of Kenley Road, Harley, appeared before Shrewsbury Magistrates on Friday 17 February 2012 charged with benefit fraud.

The court heard the defendant had claimed housing benefit and council tax benefits in 2006 at an address in Acton Burnell, Shrewsbury, but when making her claim she failed to declare the full extent of savings held in her possession.

Following an investigation by Shropshire Council, it was established Blakeway had received benefits totalling £3,038.89 to which she was not entitled.

She pleaded guilty to one charge of making a false representation and was given a six-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £200 costs.  The court was told the overpaid benefit is now being recovered by Shropshire Council.

Councillor Steve Charmley, Cabinet member for public protection, said:

“We take benefit fraud very seriously and will not hesitate to take action when necessary.  The benefits system exists to help people in need, and it’s important that those who try to take advantage of it are dealt with appropriately.”

Shropshire Council encourages people to contact the Fraud Hotline on 0345 678 9033 or the National Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 328 6340 if they have any suspicions about benefit fraud being committed.