Two convicted of Benefit Fraud at Newtownards Court

Two people were convicted at Newtownards Magistrates' Court yesterday for claiming benefits they were not entitled to.

A man failed to declare employment while claiming Income Support and Carers Allowance totalling £8,222. He was given a two month prison sentence suspended for two years.

Another man failed to declare capital while claiming Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £16,587. He was given a one year conditional discharge an ordered to pay court costs of £31.

Both are also required to repay the money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

This brings to 33 the total number of successful prosecution this year.