Newtownabbey woman fined £300 for claiming £4,000 in fraudulent benefits

A WOMAN has been convicted at Belfast Magistrates’ Court for claiming more than £4,000 in fraudulent benefits.

Jacqueline Stewart, of Ballyfore Avenue, Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, claimed Income Support and Carers Allowance totalling £4,132 while failing to declare employment.

The 25-year-old, who appeared in court on Tuesday, was fined £300 and ordered to pay court costs of £40.

She is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.