Two people were prosecuted for benefit fraud at Ashford Magistrates Court last Friday, 26 September, 2008, as the Your Money, Your Loss campaign, in association with Your Ashford, continues to clamp down on benefits cheats.

Mandy Smith, 41, of Brenchley Close, Ashford, was found guilty on three charges of fraud and given a two year conditional discharge for dishonestly claiming more than £2,000 in benefits.

In addition to costs, Ms Smith has also been ordered to start a repayment plan.

Also last Friday Joanne Wells, of Clap Hill Cottages in Aldington, was prosecuted on two charges of fraudulently claiming benefits totalling £2,206.18.

As well as agreeing a repayment plan for the benefits, Miss Wells, 38, was fined and ordered to pay costs.

Throughout the proceedings Magistrates emphasised that benefit fraud is stealing from the taxpayer and it will not be tolerated.

Councillor Paul Bartlett, deputy leader of Ashford Borough Council, echoed these sentiments:

“We must continue to be vigilant and robust in our actions against people who commit benefit fraud as they are effectively stealing from every Council Tax payer in the Borough.

“Earlier this year we received a fantastic response to our campaign to tackle benefit fraud, including backing from the Prime Minister, and we are determined to continue to clamp down on these offenders.”

“Our message to would-be fraudsters has always been very clear – you will eventually be caught.”

If you are aware of a benefit cheat then you can call the free and confidential hotline at Ashford Borough Council on 0800 026 2456, giving as much detail as possible.

Media Release 0257/08

29/09/2008