A couple who falsely claimed more than £18,000 in benefits have been given suspended jail sentences by Medway Magistrates.

Robert and Wendy Huggett of Twydall Lane, Gillingham, had been overpaid £18, 609 in benefits. They were both sentenced to six months imprisonment at Medway Magistrates’ Court on October 15.

They were also each ordered to pay £75 costs.

Mr Huggett had claimed housing benefit and council tax benefit from Medway Council, but had failed to declare that his wife, Wendy, had been working during the period he was claiming benefits.

Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Enforcement Cllr Rehman Chishti, said: “This prosecution sends a clear message to anyone who defrauds Medway Council - we will not tolerate benefit fraud of any kind.

“It is completely unacceptable and the council won’t hesitate to investigate, track down and prosecute those who cheat the system.

“I would like to pay tribute to the council’s investigation and legal teams who works tirelessly to make sure benefits go to the people who really need it.”

The money will now be repaid to the council.

Since April 1, 2007 Medway Council has undertaken 18 successful prosecutions for benefit fraud. Sentences have included conditional discharges, community services and fines totally £2,450