1:11pm Friday 3rd July 2009
By Court reporter
A BENEFIT cheat has been given a three-month curfew after admitting he falsely claimed thousands of pounds.
John Barnes, of Nine Elms Grove, Gravesend, illegally claimed a total of £4,573 in housing, council tax and income support benefits.
Dartford Magistrates’ Court heard the 32-year-old had failed to tell Gravesham Council and the Department for Work and Pensions his partner was living with him.
Barnes, who said he was ashamed of what he had done, will be tagged and must remain indoors at his address between 9pm and 4am every day.
The court heard Barnes was dependent on his partner and she had told him she would not continue supporting him if he informed the council of his change of circumstances.
At the hearing on June 26, he was also ordered to pay the money back and costs of £357.
To report fraud, call Gravesham Council on 01474 337231 or text FRAUD with details to 07781 480521.
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