Hartlepool benefits cheat given three months to repay nearly £14,000

Ian Harriman was convicted of failing to notify a change of circumstances in relation to a claim for benefits when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court last year.

The court heard Harriman, 34, of Thornton Street, Hartlepool, falsely claimed £15,926 between 2007 and 2012.

He pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to 12 weeks in prison, which was suspended for 12 months.

A financial investigation into his affairs found he had assets valued at more than £10,000, some which was held in company shares.

Judge Colin Burn ordered Harriman to repay £13,985.83 as the proceeds of crime.

Harriman must pay the money within three months, or face six months in prison if he fails to do so.