A north-east pensioner has admitted falsely claiming more than £23,000 in benefits over the course of eight years.
Sandra Stoddard lied to the Department of Work and Pensions between March 2006 and February 2014, claiming she had very little savings when she really had capital in excess of £10,000.
During that time Stoddard obtained a total of £23,033.46 she was not entitled to while living at her home, 153 North Deeside Road, Peterculter.
Yesterday, the 70-year-old admitted failing to inform the authorities of a change in circumstance which she knew would have affected her benefits.
Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard there was “every chance” Stoddard would be able to repay the cash.
Sheriff Kenneth Stewart called for background reports to be carried out into Stoddard’s character and deferred sentence until next month.
High court guidelines state that anyone who has fraudulently claimed more than £10,000 in benefits could face a custodial sentence unless “exceptional” circumstances can be proved.
Aberdeen pensioner fraudulently claimed more than £23,000
