Benefits cheat who raked in employment support despite owning second home avoids jail
A benefits cheat who pocketed more than £15,000 of government hand-outs despite the fact he owned a second home has avoided immediate jail.
Mohammed Hussain, from Dudley, failed to mention he had bought a home costing £70,000, which he was renting out for £125 per week, when applying for employment support.
Appearing at Wolverhampton Crown Court yesterday to be sentenced, Recorder Abigail Nixon said he was only avoiding jail time due to the fact he had already paid back the full amount he owed, and had no previous convictions.
Recorder Nixon said: “You knew you were not entitled to that amount over £15,000.
“Ordinarily that sort of matter would result in prison time but you have no previous convictions.
“You have expressed remorse which I see as genuine, you have repaid the amount in full, and you play a central role in the care of your children.
“Your children would suffer from your imprisonment.”
Serious
Fifty-two-year-old Hussain, of Lupin Road, had been charged for making a false statement to claim benefits.
He never mentioned he owned a home in Watsons Green, Dudley, which he was also renting out.
Since his last hearing, Hussain has paid back the full amount of £15,028.
Recorder Nixon added: “I’m not going to send you to prison but you should be aware this is a serious offence.
“ To your credit you pleaded guilty in the lower court and as a result I acknowledge your guilty plea and your remorse expressed and no doubt the shame you think you have brought on your family.”
Recorder Nixon sentenced Hussain to 36 weeks in prison, of which he would serve one month, suspended for a year.
He must also carry out 100 hours of unpaid work in 12 months.
