Resident prosecuted for Council Tax Fraud
Friday, 20 December 2024
We've successfully prosecuted a resident for fraudulently claiming Council Tax Support and a Single Person Discount.
The prosecution hearing took place on 22 November 2024, at Luton Magistrate’s Court, when the resident pleaded guilty. Following an adjournment to allow them to speak to probation and a report to be produced, sentencing took place today, 20 December and the resident was ordered to pay £1,222 in fines, victim surcharge and costs.
The resident’s claim was investigated following an allegation that they had an undeclared partner living with them. During a formal interview under caution, the resident admitted that their partner had moved into their property approximately 3 years earlier, which they had failed to disclose to us.
As a result of this omission, the resident fraudulently obtained a reduction of £5,141.75 in Council Tax, a benefit they were not entitled to. Had we been informed of the change in circumstances, the reduction would not have been granted.
In addition to the prosecution, the resident has been required to repay the full amount of the Council Tax reduction they falsely obtained.
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member for Finance and Highways said:
We take instances of Council Tax fraud very seriously, and this prosecution once again demonstrates that the council's fraud team will leave no stone unturned when seeking out fraud and pursue legal action wherever possible. We encourage anyone who suspects Council Tax or benefit fraud to report it to us. It's easy to do, email benefitfraud@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
We urge residents to report any changes in their circumstances promptly, to avoid any legal consequences.