Woman swindled $152,000 in benefits

An invalid beneficiary systematically swindled the taxpayer out of more than $152,000 over nearly 20 years, a court heard yesterday.

The woman, who has interim name suppression, was granted bail, but Christchurch District Court judge Phil Moran warned her not to read anything into her release.

She admitted two counts of wilfully omitting to advise a change of circumstances, and 10 counts of fraudulently using documents.

The court was told she was first granted an invalid benefit in 1985, when she promised to disclose any change in financial circumstances or departure from the country.

The woman used two names to gain benefit payments. She admitted working while on social welfare, and also received ACC payments while receiving benefits.

The overpayment in benefits came to $152,106, the court heard.

Defence lawyer Al Manco asked for interim name suppression so she could tell relatives and close friends. He said she was under no illusion of the outcome.

- NZPA