Benefits fraud man nabbed

Following a hearing at Airdrie Sheriff Court, the man pleaded guilty to dishonestly claiming the cash after failing to declare two private pensions.

He was sentenced to 80 hours community service and will have to pay back all the money he claimed.

The conviction followed a national fraud initiative, in which North Lanarkshire Council’s benefit fraud team participated.

Andrew McLean, sanctions and fraud manager, said: “This prosecution highlights our ongoing efforts to ensure only those entitled to benefits receive them. We will pursue those making false claims through the courts with our fraud team following up any information we receive.”

If you have any information on suspected fraud you can report it by calling 0800 953 0400.

This number offers members of the public access to a 24-hour answering service. The hotline is staffed by investigation officers during office hours.