Maidenbower Benefit Fraudster Given Fine and Community Service

A woman from Maidenbower pleaded guilty at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 18th December to two counts of benefit fraud after hiding her living arrangements from the council.

She admitted failing to declare she was living with her partner (now her husband) and fraudulently claiming £8,800 in benefits.

The court heard that the couple set up home together in March 2012 and between them had a significant income which they chose to hide so they could continue to claim Housing and Council Tax benefit.

The woman was sentenced to 80 hours community work and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £60 victim surcharge. The council have also taken steps to recover the overpayment.