YOU DUMB-BELL!
CCTV traps muscle man benefits cheat
®
A BODYBUILDER who claimed £46,000 in disability benefits was caught while working out at the gym.
Former Mr Universe candidate Malcolm Sherratt reckoned he needed a wheelchair and help getting dressed.
He made the bogus claims over an eight-year period but was exposed after investigators filmed him in the fitness centre.
The fraudster was spotted on CCTV working out twice a day and lifting heavy weights.
Sherratt, from Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, admitted five counts of fraud and was jailed for 12 months.
The grandad also claimed he needed help going to the toilet, getting up in the morning and with his cooking.
He began pocketing the benefits after competing in amateur bodybuilder competition Mr Universe in 2007. Judge David Fletcher told Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court: “It’s perfectly clear that the basis on which you were making these claims was wholly dishonest.
“Frankly, it’s a gross insult to the sort of people who are genuinely entitled to these benefits.”
Sherratt was prosecuted after being probed by the Department for Work and Pensions. He was paid disability living allowance, income support and pension credit.
The court heard he received the highest amount of mobility benefits available, normally reserved for those virtually unable to walk or who have no legs or feet.
Sherratt was quizzed by investigators but insisted he used a walking stick most days.
He claimed his buff body was “99% down to diet”.
Kevin Mortlock, defending, said: “There has been some clouding in his mind of the fact he is in pain and his mobility.
“He accepts the claim forms were exaggerated. He regrets his actions and is upset about the impact it has had on his family.”