Three convicted of benefit fraud

Three Co Armagh people were convicted of benefit fraud when they appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court yesterday (Wednesday).

Twenty-one-year-old Clare Laverty, of Glenview, Moira, claimed Income Support totalling £2,316 while failing to declare employment. She was given a three month prison sentence suspended for two years and ordered to pay court costs of £37.

Paul McNally, 58, of Festival Road, Portadown, claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £21,846 while failing to declare capital. He was given a four month prison sentence suspended for two years.

Luisa Afonso, 45, of St John’s Crescent, Portadown, claimed Income Support totalling £4,773 while failing to declare employment. She was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £34.

All are also required to repay any remaining money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

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