A BURNLEY woman has appeared in court at Reedley charged with a benefits fraud totalling more than £40,000.
Carol Lynne Middleton, 45, of Portal Avenue, is now set to face a crown court hearing over allegations that she failed to notify the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) about a change in her circumst-ances.
Richard Taylor, prosecut-ing on behalf of the DWP, said that the charges related to a three-year period, during which it is alleged she was living with her husband.
The court heard that there had been an alleged overpayment of more than £40,000 and the charges should be heard before a crown court judge.
Magistrates at Reedley agreed and remanded Middleton on bail until January 22 next year for committal proceedings to take place.
No pleas were indicated to the allegations by the defendant, who was represented by David Leach.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article