Reading Mother Sentenced For Benefit Fraud

Katherine Harkin, 24, a mum of two who falsely claimed £24,285 in income support, housing benefit and Council Tax benefits, of Skye Close, Calcot, but who lived at two previous addresses in Reading borough, was sentenced to 160 hours unpaid work and ordered to pay £250 towards legal costs, during a hearing at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, May 15th.

At the time of her original claims for financial support, Mrs Harkin told the Council and DWP that she was a single parent, with dependant children and had no source of income.

She signed declarations to say she understood her obligation to report any changes in her circumstances.

The DWP’s fraud unit received information that Mrs Harkin had been living with her husband for some time. The Council and DWP conducted a joint investigation to gather evidence that would prove her husband, Thomas Townley-Taylor, was living at the family home.

Mrs Harkin was overpaid £6,519 in income support, £1,722 in Council Tax benefit and £16,043 in housing benefit. All of the money Mrs Harkin fraudulently received will be retrieved by the Council.

Residents who suspect anyone of benefit fraud, can freephone 0500 500 777.