Children's transport fraudster sentenced

A man who swindled the public purse out of thousands of pounds by making fraudulent children's transport claims has been given a suspended prison sentence.

Christopher Brookes, 42, from Oakengates in Shropshire, falsely claimed more than £9,500 in transport-to-school funds, Telford and Wrekin Council said.

The authority added that an investigation found that he spent the money on personal expenses including online betting.

At Telford Magistrates' Court on 3 February, Brookes was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for 24 months, and ordered to repay the claims, plus a victim surcharge, which together came to £10,967.20. He had pleaded guilty to fraud at an earlier hearing.

The authority said Brookes was invited to a voluntary interview at the council's offices but failed to attend.

"This conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity in all dealings with public funds," said councillor Richard Overton, deputy leader of the council.

"Telford & Wrekin Council remains committed to tackling fraud and protecting public resources for the benefit of the community.

"The investigations team will continue to take robust action against those who seek to exploit public services for personal gain."

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