Sunbury couple prosecuted for Housing Benefit fraud

Sunbury couple prosecuted for Housing Benefit fraud

Lisa-Marie Menday and David Menday both pleaded guilty to fraud and sentencing took place at Guildford Crown Court on 15 September. 

Lisa-Marie Menday had been in receipt of Housing Benefit and the single person occupancy Council Tax discount at her address in Sunbury-on-Thames since February 2018, while David Menday separately applied to join the Housing Register in 2015 and later presented himself as homeless in 2020.

However, investigations revealed that the couple had been living together for several years and had deliberately concealed their living arrangements from the Council. David Menday falsely claimed he was sofa surfing, sleeping in his car, and even rough sleeping, despite the fact they were sharing a common household.

Lisa-Marie Menday received a 12-month community order and was sentenced to complete 60 hours of unpaid work. David Menday was given a 17-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with 80 hours of unpaid work.

A spokesperson for Spelthorne Borough Council said: "Benefit fraud undermines the system that is there to support our most vulnerable residents. This case demonstrates that we will not tolerate dishonesty and will take robust action when people attempt to abuse public funds. We urge anyone applying for benefits or housing to be honest about their circumstances – fraud will not go unnoticed."