Benefits cheat, 38, who wrongly claimed £65,000 avoids jail

The fraud was uncovered following an investigation by the Department for Communities

A woman has been convicted at Craigavon Crown Court for fraudulently claiming over £65,000 in benefits she was not entitled to, receiving a suspended sentence.

Kelly Smyth, 38, of Portlec Place, Lurgan, claimed Universal Credit totalling £65,079 whilst failing to declare joint living arrangements.

She was given 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years after the fraud was uncovered following an investigation by the Department for Communities.

Ms Smyth is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department.

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