Stafford psychic who toured the world is jailed for £170,000 benefits fraud
A medium who toured the world has been jailed after illegally claiming disability benefits as part of a £170,000 fraud with his wife.
Timothy Abbott from Staffordshire, who touted his spiritual abilities online, was filmed working out in the gym despite claiming he was unfit to work.
The 54 year-old, of Lineker Close, Stafford, was this week jailed for eight months at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.
His wife Janette, aged 50, also pleaded guilty to benefit fraud totalling almost £103,000 after a joint investigation by HM Revenue and Customs, Department for Work and Pensions, Staffordshire County Council and Staffordshire Borough Council.
She was given an eight-month sentence suspended by 18 months at the court.
Timothy Abbott who claimed £35,496 in incapacity benefit and £22,848 in disability living allowance was caught when he was filmed during a rigorous workout. He also failed to pay back £10,000 in income tax and National Insurance.
He regularly toured around the world, including Canada, Switzerland and Iceland while all the time claiming benefits.
Amongst the fraud Janette had been in receipt of direct payments from Staffordshire County Council totalling £44,376. She also received disability and living allowance.
A court will decide later in the year how much of the money the couple will have to pay back. A hearing was previously told claims were between 1998 and 2014.
The sentence has been welcomed by benefits investigators and council chiefs.
Colin Booker, assistant director of criminal investigation, HMRC, said: "Abbott exploited the benefits and tax systems in two ways. He failed to tell DWP a medical condition had improved to get disability benefits, claiming he was unfit for work, and then brazenly failed to declare his earnings as he toured the world.
"This prosecution will send a strong message that, along with our partners in DWP, we will bring those stealing from the UK economy and the British taxpayer to justice."
Staffordshire County Council health chief, councillor Alan White, said: "Direct Payments give people independence and choice in getting assistance suited to them to help them live fulfilling lives. They have made a real difference to thousands of Staffordshire people.
"While we have a number of checks in place, we expect people to be honest with their care plans. It is extremely disappointing to see that someone has shown blatant disregard for others who depend on this money.
"It is pleasing to see this case brought to a successful conclusion thanks to close working with the DWP."
