Douglas woman sentenced over £35,000 benefit fraud

A local woman has been sentenced for fraudulently claiming thousands of pounds of benefits.

Jessica Lynn Cracknell of Anagh Coar pleaded guilty to eight counts of making false representations in order to obtain benefits at Douglas courthouse on 4 December 2020.

The 31-year-old admitted falsely claiming income support and employed person allowance on the Island between November 2017 and December 2019.

The Douglas woman failed to declare she was being financially supported by her ex-partner from the outset of her claim and had received benefits totaling £34,848.61, to which she was not entitled.

Ms Cracknell received a 12 month sentence at Douglas courthouse on 4 February 2021, which was suspended for 18 months and she was ordered to pay costs.