A Woodingdean resident who cheated council taxpayers out of £18,500 in housing and council tax benefits was given a Community Order for 12 months with a requirement to carry out 80 hours' unpaid work for the benefit of the community by Brighton Magistrates.
 
Jane James, 44, of  Rudyard Road, Woodingdean, failed to declare savings of almost £35,000 which affected her entitlement to claim benefits. The capital was discovered by council’s benefits team using housing benefit matching information.
 
Ms James knew that information provided on her benefit claim was used to work out her benefit and admitted she should have told the council about the account.
 
Ms James claimed £17,058 in housing benefit and £1,422 in council tax benefit but has stated she will be appealing against some of the overpayment.
 
Councillor Ayas Fallon-Khan, cabinet member for central services, said:
“It is very important that you declare all the relevant information if you are applying for benefits. These days the council has the ability to cross-check information with other agencies and will find out if anyone is hiding something.
 
“Stealing from the public purse is despicable, particularly at this time, and wherever you are we will do all we can to track you down and help ensure you get the punishment you deserve.
 
“Honest council tax payers are rightly getting sick of having to subsidise thieving cheats.
 
“Benefits are for those who genuinely need them - not for fraudsters.“
 
Ms James was also ordered to pay £740 costs.

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www.brighton-hove.gov.uk