TROWBRIDGE man Darren Steele has pleaded guilty to two charges of benefit fraud, after failing to report to Wiltshire Council that he had capital investments in excess of £36,000.

Mr Steele, 42, formerly of Willow Grove, Westbury, and now of Lamplighters Walk, Trowbridge, appeared at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on June 22.

He pleaded guilty to two charges: dishonestly making false statements in order to obtain benefits and failure to notify relevant changes in circumstances that affected his entitlement to benefit. He was given a fine of £600, costs of £350 and a Victim Surcharge of £60.

Mr Steele made his initial claim to benefits as a single person in 2009. At this time he failed to report to the council that he had capital investments in excess of £36,000.

He continued to claim benefits and notified the council of changes in his circumstances: that his partner had moved in with him, her earnings and their dependent children, but still failing to report the capital.

When interviewed formally, Mr Steele was reluctant to report this change, until shown the evidence of his investments. He confirmed that he was aware that due to his capital he would not be entitled to benefits and that his claim would have been turned down.

Mr Steele has been overpaid housing benefit of £14,366.51; council tax benefit of £2076.11 and council tax reduction of £566.28. These overpayments will have to be repaid in full.

A spokesman for Wiltshire Council said: “It is always the responsibility of the person claiming benefit to tell the council of any changes in circumstances which may affect their entitlement.

“If there is any doubt, then the council’s revenues and benefits team will be happy to discuss any issues. Please contact 0300 456 0110 to report any changes in circumstances or ask for advice.”

If people have any information that can help catch a cheat, they should call the council’s confidential hotline on 01249 706256. Fraud can also be reported on the council’s website www.wiltshire.gov.uk/benefitfraudthere

There is also now a "Report a Fraud" feature on the My Wiltshire app, which is available for Android, Windows and Blackberry phones. People do not have to give their name and can be assured of complete confidentiality at all times.