'Wheelchair Bound' Benefit Cheat Convicted

An Ashford woman who dishonestly claimed to be wheelchair bound has been convicted of benefit fraud after it transpired she regularly swam and took part in cardio sessions at her local gym.

Layla Leach, 36, of Leaveland Close, Ashford, was convicted of making a false statement or representation with a view to obtaining benefit payments, which is an offence contrary to section 13 of the Social Security Administration (Fraud) Act 1997. She was also convicted of failing to notify a change of circumstances under the same legislation.

Having previously pleaded not guilty to those offences, Leach was found guilty during a trial at Folkestone Magistrates' Court on 13th December.

The court heard how the mother-of-four was found to be working out at Ashford International Hotel and Anytime Fitness while claiming the highest level of benefit for immobility.

Leach, of Leaveland Close, Ashford, claimed she joined two gyms, one at Ashford International Hotel and Anytime Fitness, under doctor’s recommendation to improve her health.

But neither gym received a medical note or information relating to Leach’s supposed physical limitation, the court heard.

DWP Prosecutor John Bishop read a witness statement by fitness instructor who said Leach used weights, cardio equipment and the swimming pool at least three times a week.

This was in stark contrast to her claim that she was heavily reliant on a wheelchair and struggled to walk even short distances.

Mr Bishop said: "You wrote in your claim form that you could only walk 20 metres but you have just made clear to this court you don’t even know how far 20 metres is.

"You say you attended the gyms on instruction of a doctor, but the gyms did not receive a medical note and there was no mention of your physical limitations."

Leach accused the prosecutor of being a bully when he accused her of lying to the court.

Keith Betts, defending, said Leach was of "previous good character" and had "no previous convictions".

He explained Leach's family's income was benefit-based and her ongoing medical condition meant she would be unfit for unpaid work.

Magistrates sentenced Leach to two 12-week curfews from 7 pm to 7 am to run concurrently alongside £660 court costs and £85 fine. She was also ordered to repay £10,047 in dishonestly obtained benefit payments.

A DWP spokesman said: "Only a small minority of benefit claimants are dishonest, but cases like this show how we are catching those who cheat the system and divert taxpayers' money from the people who need it.

"We are determined to catch those we suspect of fraudulently claiming benefits by following up on tip-offs, undertaking surveillance and working with local councils."