ISLANDERS are being urged to report anyone they suspect of being a benefits cheat – after a woman was found guilty of illegally claiming income support.
Georgina Mason (39) failed to report that her boyfriend had moved in with her and continued to receive income support by claiming she was single.
She received a total of £83,000 which she was not entitled to.
In a statement, Assistant Social Security Minister Malcolm Ferey said: “Every benefit fraud case is a crime against the whole community and this case serves to highlight that anyone cheating the system is highly likely to be discovered and, when necessary, prosecuted for their offenses.
“We are mindful that this course of action can have serious short-term and long-term consequences for any individual who is put through the judicial system, but we need to deter fraudulent claims and at the same time protect public finances for those who are genuinely in need of financial assistance.”
In a statement, the government urged to report suspected cases of benefit fraud.
“We ask Islanders to let us know if they suspect anyone of making fraudulent claims to obtain Income Support or any other benefit.
“Their identity will always be protected, whether the allegation is found to be true or not. Members of the public who believe an individual may be claiming fraudulently can share information anonymously via the Report a Benefit Thief page, or via the Fraud Hotline 0800 735 1111.”
