Derbyshire benefit cheat fined and told to repay the money

Mark Allen, 46, of Filigree Close, pleaded guilty to failing to declare a change in his circumstances while in receipt of housing benefit.

North East Derbyshire and Dales Magistrates’ Court heard Allen claimed more than £2,200 in benefits he was not entitled to over a 19-month period.

The offence came to light after Bolsover District Council received information from a Department for Work and Pensions’ data-matching exercise, which matches against Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs’ tax records. 

Allen received more than £2,200 in housing Bbnefit between July 8 and February 2, 2015, after failing to declare he had changed employment. 

Allen was sentenced under Section 112 of The Social Security Administration Act 1992. 

He was ordered to pay a £117 fine, costs of £100 and a £20 victim surcharge, in addition to paying back the benefits he had wrongly claimed.

If you know of anyone who you suspect is committing benefit fraud, contact Bolsover District Council on 01246 242444.

Alternatively, email [email protected].

People can also report a possible fraud to the Department of Work and Pensions hotline number 0845 6088521.