A GREENLANDS man cheated Redditch Borough Council out of more than £4,000 through false benefit claims.
Dale Chapman, of Hoveton Close, pleaded guilty at Redditch Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (November 24) to dishonestly claiming housing benefit.
The court heard how the 40-year-old was working as a service engineer on three separate occasions between October 2013 and November 2014 while still continuing to claim a total of £4,345 which he was not entitled to.
Chapman was fined £55 and ordered to pay a £20 victim surcharge and £100 in prosecution costs. The council are also using their own methods to retrieve the overpaid benefits.
A spokesperson for Redditch Borough Council said: “This case again demonstrates the importance of declaring true circumstances when claiming benefit and reporting any changes as they take place. Failure to do so may lead to a criminal record and could have an impact on future claims.”
To report a case of benefit fraud call the investigation team on 01527 534011 or visit www.redditchbc.gov.uk/fraud
