Birmingham Couple Spared Jail After Benefit Fraud

A couple have narrowly avoided prison after lying to their council about the nature of their relationship to claim benefits.

Sikander Rafiq, 34, and Samara Jabreen, 32, managed to deceive their way to over £66,000 in benefits during a period of eight years by pretending to be landlord and tenant. The couple, who lied about their relationship and the fact they had three children together, were reported to Birmingham City Council's fraud investigation team in October 2011.

Alongside the £66,268 in housing benefit, Jabreen, who signed declarations to say neither she nor her children were related to Mr Rafiq, also claimed single occupancy discount on her council tax payments and income support.

Blondelle Thompson, prosecuting, said:

"At no time did she declare Rafiq was her partner or father of her children.

"The house was put under surveillance and his car was seen daily and was used by Jabreen."

Jabreen pleaded guilty to two counts of failing to notify a change of circumstances and a charge of making a false representation while Rafik pleaded guilty to furnishing false information with regards to the tenancy agreement provided to Birmingham City Council.

If you need legal assistance with your landlord or tenant, contact our landlord solicitors on 0845 603 0708 for advice.

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