Ross Matthews [24] of Oaks Court, Narborough was ordered to pay £1,510.08 in costs and received a 12 month conditional
discharge for helping his brother commit benefit fraud
He pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates Court on 7th February 2008, to making false statements and providing false documents
to help his unemployed brother James claim Housing Benefit.
Ross was the tenant of 16 Hornbeam Close, Narborough. In September 2006, his brother James moved in with him. Housing Benefit
is not payable when you live with a close relative, so James claimed that he lived there alone and rented the property from
his cousin - Ross Matthews of Whetstone. Ross completed a bogus tenancy agreement and rent book to support the claim. James
falsely claimed £715 in Housing Benefit between September and November 2006.
When the fraud was uncovered, Ross failed to attend numerous appointments at Blaby District Council to discuss his involvement.
Whereas James insisted he had always lived at the property alone and had been duped into signing the false tenancy agreement
by his cousin. James continued with his fabricated story even when shown birth certificates, pretending surprise that Ross
was actually his brother.
The case had been listed for Trial as the brothers had pleaded Not Guilty at earlier hearings. The court was finally notified
of their change in pleas the day before the trial. Sentencing reflected that although given little notice, the prosecution
witnesses were not subjected to giving evidence in the court.
Unemployed James Matthews [29] of Jasmine Court, Narborough pleaded guilty to 3 charges of making false statements to obtain
Housing Benefit. He was ordered to complete 100 hours unpaid work in the community and pay £200 towards the prosecution costs.
Councillor Ernie White, Leader of the Council commented
"This result, along with many other successful cases, should serve as a warning to anyone who is involved in benefit
fraud. If they believe they can get away with stealing taxpayers' money, they are mistaken.”
"We have a duty to the residents of Blaby District to stop any fraudsters. If you suspect someone in the district is
committing benefit fraud; call our confidential hotline on 0116 272 7733”
"We do, on the other hand, try to do all we can to ensure that everyone who is genuinely entitled to benefits knows how
to claim them - if you think you may be eligible to receive housing benefit or council tax benefit, you should call us for
advice on 0116 272 7581."
