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23 October 2008 - Five convicted of benefit fraud at Lisburn court

Five people were convicted at Lisburn Magistrates' Court today for claiming benefits they were not entitled to.

Jamie Bell (22) of Ashmount Gardens, Lisburn claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £2,080 while living together as husband and wife. She was given a two year conditional discharge and ordered to pay £28 court costs.

Karen McConville (46) of Summerhill Drive, Dunmurry claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £1,534 while working full time. She was given a two year conditional discharge and ordered to pay £52 court costs.

Michelle Black (29) of Ardcaoin Grove, Dunmurry claimed Income Support totalling £4,109 while working full time. She was given 180 hours community service and ordered to pay £31 court costs.

Colin Pyle (36) of Eglantine Avenue, Belfast claimed Jobseeker’s Allowance and Housing Benefit while failing to declare he was employed. He was given a three months sentence suspended for 18 months and ordered to pay £22 court costs.

Paula Reilly (34) of Avonmore Terrace, Lisburn claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £289 while living together as husband and wife. She was given a 12 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £22 court costs.

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

This brings to 419 the total number of successful prosecutions this year.


Department for Social Development News