A YORK woman who committed a £3,500 benefit fraud has been punished after a council-led investigation.

Geraldine Louise Brough, 32, of Vyner Street, claimed the money despite failing to inform either City of York Council or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that her partner was living with her and contributing to her household costs.

She was caught after the authority and the DWP launched an investigation, and was given a 12-month community order and told to do 60 hours’ unpaid work after admitting the offence at York Magistrates’ Court.

“This case is yet another example of the council and the DWP working together to uncover those who try to take advantage of the welfare system,” said a spokesman for Veritau, which probes fraud on the council’s behalf.

“This is an excellent result and demonstrates that abuse of the benefit system will not be tolerated.”

Anybody who suspects benefit fraud is being committed can phone Veritau anonymously on 01904 552935 or fraud@yorkgov.uk