Chorley mum defrauds thousands in benefits

9:40pm Friday 18th July 2008

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A Chorley mum has admitted dishonestly claiming more than £7,000 in benefits from Chorley Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

Emma Johnson, 28, of Gilbert Street, claimed Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Income Support on the basis that she was a single parent.

Leyland Magistrates heard that during her interview under caution Johnson consistently denied the reconciliation between herself and her partner, Michael Flanagan, had taken place sooner than the date she had already declared to the council.

Johnson was also equally adamant that her subsequent reapplication of benefit was correct and just, the court was told.

When various pieces of evidence were put to Johnson, she eventually admitted that she and Mr Flanagan had become engaged during August 2006 and that all claims for benefit from this date were also fraudulent.

This case came to light because of anonymous tip off that suggested Johnson had reconciled her relationship with Flanagan, who was in full time employment.

The matter was referred to Chorley Council’s Benefit Investigation Team and evidence quickly began to emerge that appeared to confirm the allegation.

Councillor Alan Cullens, Chorley Council’s Executive Member (Resources), said: “As the allegation affected her entitlement to income support, an investigation officer from the DWP was invited to join the investigation.

"This enabled the court to consider the full impact of her dishonesty.

“The council provides an excellent benefit service and in the current financial climate I would encourage anyone to claim their entitlement to benefits.

"However, people need to play fair and should not take more than they are due.

“Make no mistake, if anyone is claiming more than they are entitled to because they haven’t told us the correct information or that their household circumstances have changed, we will find you out.”

The court was told that Johnson was currently making payments towards repaying the overpayment of benefit.

Magistrates gave Johnson credit for her co-operation with the investigating officers and her early plea in court.

Johnson was sentenced to a three year conditional discharge.

In sentencing, the magistrates stated that the conditional discharge was for a three-year period, in order to adequately protect society.

Johnson was also ordered to pay the council‘s costs of £150.