Woman prosecuted for benefit fraud

Tracey Goddard, age 37, of  Regina Road, South Norwood, had pleaded not guilty to dishonestly obtaining housing and council tax benefit during a five day trial at Croydon Crown Court. But the jury returned a guilty verdict.

The court heard that over a period of three years, between 2002 and 2005, Miss Goddard claimed the benefit on the basis of being a single parent, yet failed to declare that she was living with her partner, Eric Johnson.

The fraud was exposed as a result of an anonymous tip off and investigated by the council's anti fraud team, which found that she had fraudulently claimed benefits amounting to £11,287.62 for the period September 2002 to September 2005.

Miss Goddard attended court for sentencing on Wednesday 23 April and was given a custodial sentence of nine months, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to pay £24,000 in costs.

In passing sentence, Mrs Recorder Baucher said this was a deliberate and dishonest abuse to obtain tax payer's money, which was committed over a substantial period of time.

Councillor Gavin Barwell, cabinet member for resources and customer services, said: “This case provides yet another example of the consequences of committing benefit fraud. You may think you will get away with it but the truth of the matter is, we will find you out. Not only will you have to pay back every penny but you could go to prison. It really isn't worth the risk."

Anyone wishing to report a fraud should call the freephone Fraud Line number on 0800 328 9270. Those calling the 24-hour line can do so anonymously.

Council and democracy