Lottery winner, Mr John Corcoran who lives in Highbury has been fined £500 and ordered to pay costs of £250 by Highbury Corner Magistrates after he pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining Housing and Council Tax Benefits. <br><br>Mr. Corcoran didn't tell Islington Council about his share of a lottery win, approximately £20k in November 2002. The money took his savings above the limit to qualify for Housing and Council Tax Benefits.<br><br>As a result of failing to declare the money, Mr. Corcoran received Housing Benefit totalling £5,626.17 and Council Tax Benefit totalling £949.91 (overall total £6,576.08) between 19 November 2002 and 7 November 2004. <br><br>Had he told the council about the extra money, Mr. Corcoran would not have been eligible for either benefit during this period. Mr Corcoran is paying back the money he owes.<br><br>Details of Mr. Corcoran’s undeclared savings came to light through records of Income Tax paid on interest earned by savings accounts, which were matched against claims to benefits. Islington Council’s benefit security team is currently investigating further similar cases.<br><br>Councillor Jyoti Vaja, executive member for housing and community safety said: "Benefit fraud is not a victimless crime, it robs the poorest and most vulnerable members of our society. Last year six people in Islington were prosecuted for benefit fraud and a further three people have already been convicted this year. <br><br>“In Islington we will use all the powers at our disposal to catch and convict benefit cheats. Mr Corcoran was not only fined but he now has a criminal record. The message for benefit cheats is a simple one - don't be tempted because we will catch you."<br><br>Ann Lucas, Homes for Islington Board Chair, said: "Homes for Islington, working with the council, will take all necessary measures to root out cases of benefit fraud and seek to ensure that those who commit this fraud pay back the funds that should go to people who deserve and need them."<br><br>The case was heard at Highbury Corner Magistrates on 3 May 2005.<br><br>If you know a benefit cheat call our freephone 24 anonymous hotline on 0800 073 1449, visit the council's website at www.islington.gov.uk or email benefitfraud@islington.gov.uk<br><br>The benefit fraud investigations team will look at every tip off. If there are grounds for investigation one will take place and appropriate action will be taken. This can include prosecution, an official caution, a financial penalty or the withdrawal of benefit.<br><br>Ends
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009