Benefit fraudster escapes jail sentence

A MAN who exploited a vulnerable relative by falsely claiming £18,000 in carers allowance has been sentenced today (Friday).
Kurtis PinderKurtis Pinder
Kurtis Pinder

Kurtis Pinder (27), of Nidderdale Road, Rotherham, admitted benefit fraud at Sheffield Crown Court and was given a 12 month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

Pinder had been claiming carers allowance and income support for four years after declaring he was caring for a vulnerable relative.

A police spokeswoman said: "In reality, Pinder was not delivering care and rarely visited his relative." 

PC Lynn Robins, investigating officer, said: "Pinder was exploiting his relative for his own financial gain, it is simply not acceptable.

"We hope that this will act as a deterrent for others who might be tempted to abuse the system in this way.” 

He was also ordered to undertake a 10 day rehabilitation order and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.