Denisa Leboova, 31, fraudulently claimed £54,514 in Universal Credit by failing to declare her joint living arrangements to the benefits authorities. Emma Flynn, 40, illegally claimed £31,990 in Income Support and Housing Benefit while not residing in Northern Ireland at the time. Together, the total fraud amounted to £86,500.
At Newry Crown Court, Ms Leboova was sentenced to 15 months in prison, suspended for two years. Ms Flynn received a 12-month suspended sentence.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons condemned the fraud, stating that it is not only a financial issue but also a moral one. He highlighted the impact on local communities, explaining that fraud undermines the safety net relied upon by citizens.
Minister Lyons reiterated his commitment to a zero tolerance approach, pledging to name and hold accountable individuals who exploit the welfare system.
Northern Irish taxpayers lose more than £160 million to benefits fraud annually, prompting tougher measures and greater scrutiny across the Department for Work and Pensions.
