Resident prosecuted for Council Tax Fraud
Friday, 20 December 2024
We've successfully prosecuted Sophie Reeson of Snowhill, Maulden, 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 Ms Reeson pleaded guilty. Following an adjournment to allow Ms Reeson to speak to probation and a report to be produced, sentencing took place today, 20 December and Ms Reeson was ordered to pay £1,222 in fines, victim surcharge and costs.
Ms Reeson’s claim was investigated following an allegation that she had an undeclared partner living with her. During a formal interview under caution, Ms Reeson admitted that her partner had moved into her property approximately three years earlier, which she had failed to disclose to us.
As a result of this omission, Ms Reeson fraudulently obtained a reduction of £5,141.75 in her Council Tax, a benefit she was not entitled to. Had we been informed of her change in circumstances, the reduction would not have been granted.
In addition to the prosecution, Ms Reeson has been required to repay the full amount of the Council Tax reduction she 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.