Paul Stanley (61) of Gordon Field, pleaded guilty to two charges of failing to notify a change in his circumstances. Over a 10 month period he was overpaid Council Tax Benefit (CTB) of £774.70 and Income Support(IS) of £3034.70. He received a six month conditional discharge and was required to pay costs of £200. The overpaid benefit will have to be repaid.


Prosecuting on behalf of both agencies, David Payne told the court Stanley claimed CTB from WLDC in September 2006 and his claim was backdated for 12 months. IS had been paid since 2003. In connection with his claim for CTB, he was routinely visited by an officer from the council and suspicion arose in relation to his capital.


He was interviewed under caution and admitted that in February 2006, his wife inherited £48,000 which he had failed to declare. Some money was used for home improvements but a substantial amount was invested. When asked why he did not declare the receipt of the money, he said he just didn’t think to.


His claims were subsequently cancelled and overpayments calculated.


Mr Payne told the court that savings of over £16,000 prevent payment of CTB and savings of £8,000 prevent payment of IS.


WLDC’s Fraud and Subsidy Officer James O'Shaughnessy said: “This case highlights that joint investigation with other agencies reveals the totality of benefit offences and ensures tax payers’ money is recovered in full. We are committed to maintaining our good working relationships with other investigative bodies to ensure the full extent of peoples’ wrongdoing is uncovered and they are brought to justice.


“The message is clear; if anyone takes the risk of not declaring changes in their circumstances there is every chance that they will be found out and prosecuted where appropriate. So far this year we have prosecuted 13 offenders and there are many more cases in the pipeline.”