Fraudster ordered to pay back benefits

A Rochdale man who claimed benefits whilst working for three different employment agencies has been ordered to repay the benefits, pay a fine and pay court costs.

Anthony Farrell, 48, appeared at Rochdale Magistrates Court on Friday (3 September 2010).

Mr Farrell pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining benefits totalling £3684.

Mr Farrell claimed Job Seekers Allowance and Housing and Council Tax benefit despite working for three agencies.

The defendant admitted his dishonesty and received a fine of £200 with £150 costs and a £15 victim surcharge.

The offences were uncovered during a joint investigation by the Department of Work and Pensions, and the council fraud team.

Councillor Greg Couzens, Cabinet Member for Finance and Corporate Management said: “He systematically abused the benefits system whilst claiming to be unemployed. Greed was his downfall.”