Benefit fraudsters fined over failure to declare assets

Steven Hutson, 42, of Maybury Road, Hull, fraudulently claimed £9,169.36 in council tax benefit and Jobseeker’s Allowance by failing to declare he had inherited more than £80,000.

Hutson, who admitted two offences under the Social Security Administration Act when he appeared before magistrates in the city, had repaid the benefits he claimed following an investigation into his affairs, but was fined £235 and ordered to pay £250 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

Steven Burrows, 44, of Grasby Road, Hull, dishonestly claimed housing, council tax benefits and Jobseeker’s Allowance totalling £3,383.71 by failing to declare he had capital of £35,000.

He pleaded guilty to two offences under the Act and was ordered to repay the benefits. He was fined £150 and told to pay £150 more as costs and victim surcharge.

Three defendants in other benefit fraud cases failed to turn up at court and warrants for their arrest were issued by magistrates.

Peter Holland, Hull Council’s assistant head of service for audit and fraud, said the prosecutions should serve as a warning to others.

“Benefit fraud affects every household in the country,” he said. “It is not a victimless crime; all taxpayers are victims.

“The council has a duty to preserve public money and to make sure that assistance goes to those that genuinely need it.

Mr Holland added: “The vast majority of housing and council tax benefit claimants are genuine and ensure that they notify us of their assets and any changes in their personal and household circumstances.

“These cases highlight instances where people have knowingly or dishonestly failed to do so.”

“We will use all the powers at our disposal to ensure that those that abuse the system are dealt with in the appropriate manner and that they repay every penny stolen.”