Taunton court gives local benefit cheat community service

A Wiveliscombe man who fraudulently claimed over £2,500 in benefits, was given 100 hours community service by Taunton Magistrates' Court today.

Peter Kemp, of Mayfield Terrace, Wiveliscombe,  pleaded guilty to failing to inform Taunton Deane Borough Council's Housing Benefit Department and the Department of Works and Pensions that he was living with a working partner while he was making claims.

Mr Kemp had claimed £1,227.90 in Housing Benefit, £227.88 in Council Tax Benefit and £1,135.40 in Jobseekers Allowance, to which he was not entitled.

As well as receiving the community service, Mr Kemp was also ordered to pay £170 in costs.

He apologised to the court for what he had done.

In light of this, Taunton Deane Council have issued a stark warning to those who try to cheat the benefit system.

Councillor Vivienne Stock-Williams, who holds the Borough Council's Corporate Resources portfolio, said: "Housing and Council benefits, as well as Jobseekers Allowance, are there to help people in need and should not be abused. 

"I hope that this case will send out a clear message to anyone attempting to claim benefits illegally from Taunton Deane Borough Council."