Thatcham woman denies benefits fraud

A WOMAN is to go on trial accused of benefits fraud.

Fifty-seven-year-old Lynn Raper appeared for a preliminary hearing at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday.

Alongside her in the dock was Alexander Roberts, aged 30, who faces a dishonesty charge.

Both live in Foxglove Way, Thatcham. Ms Raper, who was represented by Gerard Pitt, is charged with three charges of fraud.

Specifically, she faces three charges of failing to disclose the full extent of the income and assets of her partner, Darren Roberts, on a financial assessment form submitted to West Berkshire Council, intending to make a gain for herself or to cause another to lose.

Both Ms Raper and Mr Roberts, who was legally represented by Josh Stamp-Simon, are charged with concealing, disguising, converting or transferring property which they knew or suspected to be the benefit of criminal conduct.

All the offences were said to have been committed in Thatcham on various dates in 2022.

The pair spoke only to confirm their details and to plead not guilty to all the charges.

Judge Amjad Nawaz said the matter would be adjourned for a trial to be arranged.

He scheduled the trial, which is expected to last around seven days, for the end of October.

Ms Raper and Mr Roberts were meanwhile released on unconditional bail.