Conditional sentence imposed on former Sydney woman for fraud charges

A former Sydney woman who defrauded the Department of Community Services of more than $14,000 in assistance benefits must now serve a six-month conditional sentence followed by two years ofprobation.

Melissa Marie Rose, 39, who now lives in the Halifax Regional Municipality, was sentenced Monday after previously pleading guilty to eight counts of fraud committed between May 2013 and February 2015.

Prosecutor Gerald MacDonald told the court that while receiving social assistance benefits, Rose failed to declare additional income she was receiving in workers’ compensation benefits.

MacDonald said Rose started receiving compensation benefits in 2009 after suffering a workplace injury.

He noted that while Rose had no prior criminal record, the amount of the fraud, $14,412.19, was substantial and that currently, Rose has little resources in which to repay the department.

Provincial court Judge Brian Williston also granted a request for a compensation order for the department in the full amount.

Both MacDonald and defence lawyer John MacNeil told the court Rose has experienced some tough times in her life and continues to grapple with mental health issues.

“I apologize for my actions,” Rose told the court, adding she is particularly saddened for the effects her crime has had on her family and two children.

A conditional sentence allows offenders to serve their time in the community under strict conditions.

For the next six months, Rose is to be under a 24/7 curfew with exceptions for medical, legal, education, counseling and religious appointments. She is also allowed out for one, four-hour period per week to attend to personal business.

During her probation period, the curfew is removed and she is to refrain from alcohol and all drugs not prescribed her by a physician and is to take all counseling as recommended.