A Wigston resident has been ordered to complete 80 hours unpaid work after she was found guilty of benefit fraud.

Kerri Hardy, 36, formally of Glenford Grange, Little Glen Road, Glen Parva, continued to collect housing benefit after she left her privately rented property.

She accepted an additional five months of housing benefit which totalled £1,850.74.

Blaby District Council attempted to interview Miss Hardy on several occasions, but was unsuccessful, and her refusal to attend appointments at the council offices resulted in the matter being dealt with through the court.

Miss Hardy, currently of Dunton Street, Wigston, pleaded guilty at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on 11 April 2014 to one charge of failing to declare a change of circumstance that affected her benefit entitlement.

Taking her early plea into consideration, she was ordered to complete 80 hours unpaid work and pay a £60 victim surcharge plus £300 towards costs.

Miss Hardy will also be repaying the money she falsely claimed.

Jane Toman, Director of People at Blaby District Council, said:

“This sends a clear message that the Council takes fraud very seriously and people should know they run the risk of being prosecuted if they are not honest about their circumstances.”

If you suspect anyone in Blaby District of committing benefit fraud, please call the Council’s confidential Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0116 272 7733 or complete the online form at www.blaby.gov.uk/fraud