Elderly Benefit Scammer Netted £70,000 While Owning a Holiday Home!
A 75-year-old pensioner, George Tatlow, found himself in hot water after pocketing over £70,000 in benefits he wasn’t entitled to. The surprise? He had a property in Bulgaria, land in Carmarthenshire, and other hidden assets! Swansea Crown Court was told his failure to declare these riches was simply an “oversight.”
Tatlow’s claim history dates back to 2015 when he applied for pension credits, followed by housing benefits and council tax reductions. But an investigation unearthed shocking truths about his unreported assets. Result? £39,821 in pension credits, £26,355 in housing benefits, and £4,363 in council tax benefits that should never have hit his account!
Despite denying any wrongdoing initially, Tatlow pleaded guilty to multiple counts of fraud. His defence claimed he needed assistance managing his finances – and the court seemed to agree, sentencing him to 10 months in prison suspended for 18 months. Alongside this, a proceeds of crime probe is on its way, eyeing that land in Carmarthenshire that’s now supposedly worth £160,000!
The takeaway from the judge? A heartfelt reminder that age is no barrier to consequences. Tatlow was urged to reflect on his actions, a sentiment echoed across the court. The story might serve as a stark warning to others: honesty truly is the best policy!