Two convicted of benefit fraud at Ballymena Court

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

A Ballymena man (57) claimed Income Support and Rates totalling £16,784 while failing to declare capital. He was given a conditional discharge for 18 months and ordered to pay court costs of £79. He has repaid the money he owed to the Social Security Agency.

A Ballymena man (43) claimed Jobseekers Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £6,680. He was given a conditional discharge for 18 months and ordered to pay court costs of £97.

He is also required to repay outstanding money he wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.