5 February 2007
FIVE NEWRY BENEFIT FRAUDSTERS CONVICTED
Four men and a woman were convicted in Newry Magistrates’ court today for benefit fraud offences.
Colum McGuinness (33), of John Martin Gardens, Newry had failed to declare that he was living with his partner and had fraudulently claimed Income Support of £13,593. He was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay costs of £64.
Martin Lucas (55), of Upper Dromore Road, Warrenpoint was fraudulently in receipt of £9,517 Housing Benefit. He had failed to declare receipt of an occupational pension. He was fined £750 and ordered to pay £64 court costs.
Geoffrey Mylan (58), of Wesley Place, Bessbrook had claimed Disability Living Allowance of £3,145 whilst working. He was given a £250 fine and ordered to pay £49 court costs.
Anthony McKee (30), of Park Head Crescent, Newry had falsely cashed Income Support cheques to the value of £121 in October 2004 and May 2005. He was fined a total of £150 and ordered to pay £147 court costs.
Mary Graham (44), of Lurgancahone Road, Rathfriland had worked while claiming Disability Living Allowance and falsely claimed £2,733 over the period July 2004 to March 2005. She was given an absolute discharge and ordered to pay £37 court costs.
All five are also required to repay the money they received to the Social Security Agency.
This brings to 37 the total number of convictions for benefit fraud this year.
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