A Fife mother scammed £5,300 in benefits from the public purse over a period of 20 months.
Kelly Somerville was living with her working husband when she obtained benefits to which she was not entitled.
She knowingly failed to notify the DWP of the change of circumstances, in that her husband was able to contribute financially to the household.
The 42-year-old in Rosyth, previously pled guilty to the offence under the Social Security Administration Act 1992.
She swindled the money at two other addresses in Rosyth between May 5 2016 and January 30 2018.
Paid back in full
Procurator fiscal depute Catherine Stevenson told Dunfermline Sheriff Court that during this period Somerville claimed Employment and Support Allowance.
Ms Stevenson said: “She has stated she was unable to work, she was single and had no other income and had three dependent children.
“The allowance has been paid over a period of time, which has amounted to £5,306.67.
“It was later found out that information she provided was not accurate and she had a partner who she was living with who was in full time employment”.
Defence lawyer Alan Davie said Somerville had received a letter indicating, as a result of an underpayment of Universal Credit to her of just under £5,000, she was able to repay the bulk of the overpaid benefits.
Mr Davie said the remaining balance has now been paid in full through smaller payments.
Sentencing questions
Sheriff Wyllie Robertson said an unpaid work order would be the most appropriate punishment in this case as a direct alternative to custody.
Mr Davie said Somerville “believes she would be fit for light duties” but her concern would be the mental health implications of not having enough time to complete it.
The court heard a restriction of liberty order would not be a suitable punishment for Somerville, given the impact it would have on her family.
Sheriff Robertson further deferred sentence until March 22 for a medical note to be obtained for Somerville.
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