Chard Woman Guilty Of Benefit Fraud

By Bumble_B | Tuesday, October 11, 2011, 16:18

A Chard woman has been brought to justice following an investigation into suspected benefit fraud.

Residents are urged to report anyone they suspect is committing benefit fraud to the district council by telephoning 01935 462208.

Donna Fisher (29) of Reed Close in Chard did not inform the district council that her partner had found work, and as a result she continued to claim £2,400 in housing benefit and council tax benefit that she was no longer entitled to.

The Magistrates found her guilty of both charges and fined her £85 for each offence. As well as repaying the full amount, she must also pay the district council £175 in costs.

Cllr Ric Pallister, SSDC Leader said: "South Somerset District Council will continue to do everything in our power to identify and then take action to stamp out benefit fraud.

"This money is there for those who really need it and to continue claiming in the knowledge that circumstances have changed is a crime. Our Litigation and Investigations teams work together to identify and follow through benefit fraud."

Photo: Here