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Posted on the 14th January 2025 in PHTM News
CHELTENHAM CABBIE GIVEN 12-MONTH COMMUNITY ORDER FOR BENEFIT FRAUD
A Cheltenham man has been sentenced for fraudulently claiming over £22,000 in benefits by failing to declare his employment as a taxi and delivery driver.
Larry Gough, from Shurdington, pleaded guilty to defrauding Tewkesbury Borough Council of £2,212.37 in council tax reduction and £8,285.61 in housing benefit.
He also admitted to fraudulently claiming £11,726.33 in pension credit from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Gough failed to inform the authorities about his income, resulting in overpayments of benefits between September 2020 and August 2023.
At Gloucester Crown Court on January 8, 2025, Gough was sentenced to a 12-month community order with 80 hours of unpaid work.
He was also ordered to pay a £95 surcharge.
The investigation was a joint effort between Tewkesbury Borough Council's Counter Fraud and Enforcement Unit and the DWP.
Councillor Stewart Dove, Tewkesbury Borough Council's lead member for Finance and Asset Management, stated: "Tewkesbury Borough Council is committed to ensuring that public funds are used appropriately and that those who attempt to defraud the system are held accountable."
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