Perthshire couple’s disability benefit scam foiled after shopping trip
ByThe Courier Reporter
A couple who carried out a disability benefits con were caught after being seen walking back from the supermarket laden with bags of shopping.
Andrew and Jacqueline Reed were then secretly watched by investigators from the Department of Work and Pensions going on a series of long walks.
Andrew Reed, 52, County Place, Almondbank, Perthshire, admitted obtaining £3,000 in Disability Living Allowance which he was not entitled to between 12 November 2012 and 14 May 2013.
Jacqueline Reed, 44, admitted that between 12 November 2012 and 18 March 2013 she obtained benefit premiums relating to her role as carer for her husband which she was not entitled to.
Both failed to notify the DWP of an improvement in medical condition.
Fiscal depute Bill Kermode told Perth Sheriff Court: “They were seen to walk approximately 930 metres and 920 metres with no apparent mobility issues.”
Mr Reed was handed a ten month restriction of liberty order while Mrs Reed was ordered to carry out 125 hours unpaid work.
