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Press Release

17 February 2023

Prosecution success for housing fraud

Fareham Borough Council has successfully prosecuted an individual for committing Housing Fraud at Portsmouth Magistrates Court this week.

The breach related to a Ms Whiffin, who unlawfully sublet her three-bedroom Council house to a relative after she had taken up residence elsewhere.

The prosecution case was submitted by Southampton Legal and dealt with at Portsmouth Magistrates Court. Ms Whiffin pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. The Court also made an Unlawful Profit Order of £1,248.62, which Ms Whiffin must repay, leaving the Council to recover its losses separately.

Cllr Connie Hockley, Executive Member for Housing at Fareham Borough Council said: “I am delighted that this prosecution case has been successful as it acts as a deterrent to others who are unlawfully subletting their Council homes. Council houses are in huge demand and offences such as this deprive other members of the community of a much-needed home. The property has now been recovered and reallocated to a family that has been on the housing waiting list for some time.”

Residents can report Housing Fraud by emailing investigations@fareham.gov.uk or calling 01329 824667.

ENDS