Scottish Shopkeeper Jailed for Posing as Dead Father in £22k DWP Benefits Fraud
A shopkeeper who resided in Scotland for two decades has been sentenced to prison for orchestrating a sophisticated benefits fraud scheme, where he impersonated his deceased father to illegally claim nearly £22,000 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
Hassan Mirza, aged 43, initiated the fraudulent activities in March 2017, continuing until June 2019. He posed as his father, Abdul Mirza, who had passed away three years prior, to submit false benefit claims. The scam resulted in Mirza obtaining close to £22,000 in state funds, which he has not repaid.
During court proceedings, Sheriff John Rafferty emphasized the deliberate and planned nature of the offense, stating it was not a case of changing circumstances but a fraudulent scheme from the outset. Mirza persistently maintained the pretence even when contacted multiple times by the DWP.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Mirza appeared at Dundee Sheriff Court, where he admitted to two charges of fraud. In 2022, he was jailed for eight months for these crimes. The court highlighted that his actions deprived others in need of public resources, with no compelling reasons or vulnerability cited for his behavior.
Additionally, a Proceeds of Crime action was initiated against Mirza for defrauding both the DWP and Dundee City Council. However, the Crown agreed to accept just £1 to conclude the action, despite Mirza accumulating £30,000 in debts.
Language and Interpreter Issues
Despite living in Scotland for 20 years, Mirza required a taxpayer-funded interpreter during court appearances, citing difficulties with English. His solicitor, Annika Jethwa, noted that while he speaks English, he sometimes struggles to follow proceedings, leading to the need for interpretation services.
Subsequent Domestic Abuse Charges
Mirza returned to court after admitting to engaging in abusive behavior towards his wife between May 2023 and September 2024. Sheriff Paul Ralph condemned the nearly 18-month period of abuse as completely unacceptable, pointing out that social workers' reports indicated a lack of reflection on his actions.
The background report was described as extremely poor, further complicating the case. This incident adds to Mirza's criminal record, underscoring a pattern of unlawful conduct.
Key Points of the Case:
- Mirza fraudulently claimed £22,000 by impersonating his dead father over two years.
- He was jailed for eight months in 2022 and faced additional charges for domestic abuse.
- Despite long-term residence in Scotland, he required an interpreter in court due to English language difficulties.
- The Crown accepted a nominal £1 to settle the Proceeds of Crime action related to the fraud.
