An Angus fraudster who falsely claimed more than £11,000 in benefits has been jailed for nine months.
Jon Robertson (31), of Dalgarno Park, Hillside, appeared at Arbroath Sheriff Court.
He previously admitted that. between August 16 2010 and February 12, he made false representations to Angus Council and the Department for Work and Pensions by failing to declare his wife was living with him.
Robertson was paid £11,674.42 to which he was not entitled, in housing benefit, council tax benefit, jobseeker’s allowance and income support, by knowingly filling in forms fraudulently at Montrose Jobcentre.
The court heard he has previous convictions for fraud and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Defence agent Lynn Sturrock said he has accepted responsibility for his actions.
She added: “He has been in custody previously and, if he were to receive a custodial sentence, it is likely his wife would have to give up employment to look after their two children.
“He recognises the position he is in and the seriousness of the offence he has committed.”
Sheriff Peter Paterson said: “The simple fact of the matter is that you do have previous for fraud, and under the circumstances I have no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence.”