Former Pollington resident given suspended sentence for £51,000 benefit fraud
Woman to repay fraudulently claimed benefits following investigation
A former East Riding resident, Pauline Ellam, has been sentenced after admitting to committing benefit fraud totalling £51,224.60 over a three-year period.
Ellam, previously from Pollington, Goole in East Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to charges related to falsifying benefit claims for council tax support, housing benefit, and employment support allowance.
This fraudulent activity occurred between January 2020 and January 2023 and was uncovered through a collaborative investigation by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Ellam's failure to disclose her domestic arrangement with her partner affected her eligibility for the benefits she had received, resulting in significant overpayments.
Appearing at Leeds Crown Court on 15th May 2026, Ellam was sentenced to 29 months imprisonment, suspended for two years.
Additionally, she is required to complete 15 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days and repay all the funds unlawfully obtained.
Proceeds of Crime Act proceedings are currently active to ensure that any financial gain derived from Ellam's criminal activities is recouped.
Councillor Nigel Wilkinson from East Riding of Yorkshire Council emphasised the council's firm stance against fraud.
He stated, "The council has a zero-tolerance approach to fraud of all types and will take action against anyone found cheating the system."
Residents who suspect benefit fraud can report their concerns with confidentiality by visiting the council's website or calling the 24-hour fraud hotline at 01482 394949.
Reporting contributes to maintaining the integrity of the benefits system and ensures resources are allocated fairly.