Behind Bars: Exposing Benefit Fraud in Lisburn

Two people were convicted at Lisburn Magistrates Court on Tuesday, April 15, for claiming benefits they were not entitled to.

Jackie Kidd's Deception

Jackie Kidd, 53, of Hamilton Gardens, Lisburn, falsely claimed Universal Credit amounting to £7,770 while concealing his employment status. He received a four-month suspended imprisonment sentence of 18 months.

Caroline Kirkpatrick's Misconduct

Caroline Kirkpatrick, 60, residing at Glenavy Gardens, Lisburn, deceitfully obtained Jobseeker's Allowance totaling £1,925 by not disclosing her employment. She has been put on an 18-month probation.

Both offenders must repay the misappropriated funds to the Department for Communities. A Department spokesperson noted the ease of anonymously reporting suspected benefit fraud, emphasizing the detrimental financial impact of such crimes. More information can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/benefit-fraud

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