The Isle of Wight Council is warning residents who unlawfully claim benefits they are not entitled to, that it will take legal action if necessary.
It follows a recent court case where an Island resident unlawfully claimed housing benefit they were not entitled to and was ordered under the Proceeds of Crime Act to pay the Isle of Wight Council more than £24,000 within six months or face 12 months imprisonment.
The recent case came about as a result of several council departments working together to identify fraudulent activity and then involving multi-agency partners including Hampshire Police.
Councillor Steve Stubbings, Executive member for housing, said:
“Unlawfully claiming benefits you are not entitled to is a very serious crime and costs councils across the country millions every year. It is very important the council works with partners to crackdown on fraudulent activity so that benefits are only given to those who genuinely need them.
“This recent successful prosecution shows we will not tolerate fraudulent activity and demonstrates that if you do unlawfully claim benefits, you will be caught and you will pay back what you owe or you could go to prison.”
The council operates a dedicated phone number that people can call should they suspect someone is unlawfully claiming benefits. Anyone calling the number has the right to remain anonymous and all information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence. To contact the number, ring (01983) 823969.
