Single mum admits benefit theft

A Rochdale woman has admitted cheating almost £20,000 worth of benefits from the council and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

24-year old Samantha Shepherd, of Arkwright Way, Rochdale, has this week been sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years, and also given a 24-month supervision order.

Shepherd pleaded guilty at Bolton Crown Court to five charges of Income Support, Housing and Council Tax Benefit fraud totaling £19,887.42 over a five year period. She had claimed benefits by falsely declaring that she was a single mother and had no income, when she was in fact living with her husband who was in full time employment.

The offences were uncovered following an anonymous tip off, which resulted in a joint investigation between Rochdale Council’s fraud team and the DWP. When interviewed about the offences, Shepherd admitted her dishonesty in claiming money she wasn’t entitled to, and legal action was taken against her.

As well as the six-month suspended jail sentence and two-year supervision order, Shepherd must repay Rochdale Council all the money fraudulently claimed.

Councillor Greg Couzens, cabinet member for finance on Rochdale Council, said: “This prosecution sends a strong message to anyone who may be attempting to cheat the benefit system. Our fraud investigation team are extremely vigilant, and those who make false claims will be found out and prosecuted.

“By taking part in initiatives like the Government’s ‘No Ifs, No Buts’ campaign this council will continue to ensure that only those people entitled to benefits receive them. If you know of someone committing benefit fraud, you can report it free by calling 0800 328 6340 or contact the Fraud Team directly on 01706 926100.”