Two convicted of benefit fraud at Belfast Magistrates Court

TWO men from Co Antrim have been convicted at Belfast Magistrates’ court on Tuesday for making false benefit claims.

Andrew McCarey, of The Glade, Mossley claimed Jobseekers Allowance totalling £4,317 while failing to declare employment.

The 32-year-old was given 150 hours community service.

Stuart Thomson, of Gray Mount Parade, Newtownabbey was given 120 hours community service.

The 31-year-old was ordered to pay court costs of £22 for wrongful encashment of Employment and Support Allowance totalling £257.

Both are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.