Chester woman admits £4,298 benefit fraud

Mar 29 2010 by Michael Green, Chester Chronicle

A 44-YEAR-old Chester woman has pleaded guilty to three offences of benefit fraud amounting to £4,298.

Tracey Clark from Tarvin Road admitted dishonestly failing to promptly notify Cheshire West and Chester Council (formerly Chester City Council) and the Department for Work and Pensions that she had been working and knew this would affect her housing benefit, council tax benefit and incapacity benefit.

Chester Magistrates Court sentenced Mrs Clark to a 12 month community order in which she must undertake 50 hours unpaid work. She is also required to fully repay the overpaid benefit.

If you think someone you know is claiming benefit that they are not entitled to, then you can report your suspicions on 0300 123 7030 or alternatively via the council website www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

You can also email your suspicions to fraud@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

All the information received will be treated in the strictest confidence.