Man claimed thousands for child transport - despite child not being in his care - and spent money on online betting
A man has been sentenced after claiming thousands for his child's transport - despite the child not being in his care.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Christopher Brookes, 42, from Buttery Grove in Oakengates, Telford, pleaded guilty to one charge of fraud when he appeared at Telford Magistrates Court earlier this week.
The charge related to claims for thousands of pounds in child transport, despite the child leaving his care in May 2023.
A spokesman for Telford & Wrekin Council said: "Brookes claimed more than £9,500 in public funds for his child’s transport to school, misusing the personal budget allowance and failing to notify the council that the child no longer lived in Telford and Wrekin.
"An investigation by the council’s investigation team showed that Brookes knowingly received and misused the funds. Evidence from bank accounts show that he spent the money on personal expenses including online betting and transfers to a third party."
The council said Brookes was invited to a voluntary interview at its offices, but failed to attend.
He was sentenced on Monday (February 3) at Telford Magistrates Court to four months in prison, suspended for 24 months, and ordered to repay the full amount, along with costs and a victim surcharge.
Councillor Richard Overton, the council's deputy leader and cabinet member for highways, housing and enforcement, said: “This conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity in all dealings with public funds.
“Telford & Wrekin Council remains committed to tackling fraud and protecting public resources for the benefit of the community.
“The investigations team will continue to take robust action against those who seek to exploit public services for personal gain.”
The council has also urged the public to report anyone they believe is defrauding the public purse.
The spokesman added: "If anyone believes that someone is obtaining services from the council, to which they are not entitled, it can be reported here using an online form, email investigations@telford.gov.uk, call 01952 383839 or write to the investigation team, Telford & Wrekin Council, Darby House, Lawn Central, TF3 4JA. All information received is treated with the utmost confidence."
