Chester Woman sentenced for £4,000 benefit fraud

Tina Cook failed to notify authorities that her partner was cohabiting with her

3 February 2012

A 39-year-old woman from Chester has appeared at Chester Magistrates Court where she pleaded guilty to benefit fraud totalling nearly £4,000.

Tina Cook of Blacon Point Road pleaded guilty to offences of knowingly making a false representation to Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Department for Work and Pensions that she knew would affect her entitlement to Housing Benefit/Council Tax Benefit and Income Support. Namely she failed to declare that her partner was cohabiting with her.

Miss Cook was overpaid a total of £4,098.55, a substantial loss to public funds.

The court sentenced Miss Cook to 100 hours of un-paid work. She was also ordered to pay £100 towards the prosecution costs.

Miss Cook is also required to fully repay the overpaid benefit to Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.

If you think someone you know is claiming benefit they are not entitled to, you can report your suspicions on 0300 123 7030 or alternatively via the Benefit Fraud pages.

You can also e-mail your suspicions to fraud@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. All information received will be treated in the strictest confidence.