A man from Fulbourn has been given a suspended prison sentence after fraudulently claiming to be homeless to apply for Council housing - while renting out a private property.
Raymond Brown, 67, was sentenced to nine months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years, after pleading guilty to temporary housing application fraud, permanent housing application fraud and Council Tax support fraud.
In addition to surrendering his council tenancy due to the investigation findings, proceedings have begun to recover financial loss to the Council, the hearing at Cambridge Crown Court heard.
Finance bosses at South Cambridgeshire District Council say it is a reminder to residents to ensure their circumstances are reported to the authority accurately and fully when applying for Council’s limited resources, as it can change their priority or entitlement to housing.
An investigation started after an anonymous referral to the fraud team, which discovered that Mr Brown had not disclosed private property ownership or rental income when applying for housing through the high priority need homelessness process, nor during the subsequent term of his tenancy.
He was offered the opportunity to take part in the District Council’s Key Amnesty scheme – where tenants can surrender their Council house keys voluntarily and no action will be taken – but failed to do so.
Cllr John Williams, Lead Cabinet Member for Finance at South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “This case highlights why it is so important that any resident declare their circumstances fully and correctly to the Council when applying for housing. We are always happy to assist residents and help them with their housing needs that they are entitled to but won’t tolerate anyone abusing the Council’s resources in an illegal manner. If you’re applying for housing and need assistance with the application process or not sure what is relevant to declare - talk to us. If you don’t you could end-up in court.”
· To report fraud against South Cambridgeshire District Council, please use the online form and guidance.
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