Yorkshire Woman Pleads Guilty to Five Offences of Fraud

A woman has pleaded guilty to five offences of fraud after lying about being a single parent and claiming more than £30,000 in government benefits over a 20 year period.

Sharon Jowett, 45, of Broom Terrace, Belle Isle in Leeds, was given a suspended prison sentence after making housing, council tax and income support benefit claims that she wasn't entitled to between 1993 and 2013.

Despite living with a partner for most of the 20 year period, she told authorities she was a single parent in 12 separate claims to obtain benefits totalling £32,738. During an interview after the offences came to light, Ms Jowett claimed her partner was homeless and using her address to receive mail. She later pleaded guilty to the offences.

Adam Birkby, mitigating, said:

"She has offered a full and frank apology for her behaviour.

"Although at the time the money involved was only a relatively small amount on a weekly basis, when they were totalled up the defendant herself was flabbergasted.

"She simply can't imagine that amount of money."

Ms Jowett was given a 12 month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and has agreed on a repayment plan with her partner to return the £30,000. Mr Birkby added that it is expected to take approximately 18 years to repay.

If you have been accused of benefit fraud, contact our fraud solicitors on 01302 360 606 for advice.

G V Hale & Co

Fraud Solicitors