A Beverley woman has been sentenced after admitting to fraudulently claiming benefits totalling £33,162 over a period of several years.
Shanie-Leigh Altoft, of Beverley, East Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to two offences of benefit fraud relating to her claims for Council Tax Support and Universal Credit. The offences took place between December 2019 and February 2024.
Altoft failed to disclose that she was living together with her partner and maintaining a common household with him, which affected her entitlement to benefits. Her actions resulted in an overpayment of Council Tax Support and Universal Credit amounting to £33,162.
The fraud was uncovered following a joint investigation by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the Department for Work and Pensions.
Altoft appeared before Hull Crown Court on Friday 22 August 2025 and was sentenced to 15 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months and ordered to carry out 15 rehabilitation activity days. She will also be required to repay all the money she fraudulently received.
Anyone who suspects benefit fraud is being committed in the East Riding area can report it in confidence by visiting www.eastriding.gov.uk/housing/housing-benefit-and-council-tax-support/fraud-reporting/ or by calling the 24-hour fraud hotline on 01482 394949.
