Pensioner Michael James of Blackfield pleads guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation

FAILING to declare savings of £16,000 or more to obtain a council tax reduction and housing benefit cost a Blackfield pensioner just over £100.

Michael James (71), of Harvey Court, pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation, relating to offences committed on 3rd June 2019.

The Bench sitting at Southampton Magistrates’ Court ordered the defendant to pay £105 in court charges and handed him a six-month conditional discharge.