Limavady men exaggerated their disabilities to fraudulently claim thousands in benefits
The defendants who claimed Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payments were given suspended jail sentences and have been ordered to repay the money
Two County Derry men have been convicted of benefit fraud at Antrim Crown Court.
Bruke Neely (29), of Anderson Park, Limavady claimed Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment totalling £43,215 whilst exaggerating the extent of his disability and failing to declare joint living arrangements and excess capital. He was given twelve months’ imprisonment suspended for three years.
Dwayne McElwee (30), of Anderson Park, Limavady claimed Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment totalling £37,238 whilst exaggerating the extent of his disability and failing to declare joint living arrangements and excess capital. He was given twelve months’ imprisonment suspended for three years.
The fraud was uncovered following an investigation by the Department for Communities.
Both men are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.