Ballynahinch man convicted of benefit fraud - 03 June 2008

A man has been convicted at Downpatrick Magistrates’ Court today for claiming benefits he was not entitled to.

Alexander McKee (59) of Cumber Hill, Ballynahinch claimed Income Support, Incapacity Benefit and Housing Benefit totalling £20,815 while failing to declare he had capital. He was given an 18 month custodial sentence suspended for three years.

Mr McKee is also required to repay the money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

This brings to 180 the total number of successful prosecutions this year.