THE treasurer of a DWP social club pocketed hundreds of pounds of their funds, some of which was destined for charity.
After Emily Spencer’s dishonesty, which spanned about five months, came to light it led to a governmental internal audit investigation, a court heard.
The 28-year-old appeared in the dock at Liverpool Magistrates Court today (Wednesday, January 29) admitting fraud by abuse of position between November 21, 2023 and April 3 last year.
Alex Farrow, prosecuting, said that Spencer, of Devizes Drive, Irby, Wirral, had been treasurer of Independent Case Examiners sports and social club, known as Ice, based in Bootle.
Investigations revealed a total loss of £2,328, some of which was earmarked for charitable purposes and some for club prizes. The court heard that she has repaid some of that sum.
Chair of the Bench, Ronald Plinston, told her that the charitable organisations had lost revenue because of her activities.
He said that the offence crossed the custody threshold and imposed 16 weeks imprisonment but suspended it for 12 months.
Mr Plinston said that they had decided to suspend the term because there was a realistic prospect of rehabilitation, she has no previous convictions and had pleaded guilty.
Spencer, who has since obtained a new job, has some mental health issues and cares for her sick mum, he added.
The Bench imposed a 12 month community order and a Mental Health Treatment requirement for the same length of time. The magistrates also ordered her to carry out 10 days rehabilitation activities and pay £1,771 compensation at £100 per month.
Irby woman gets suspended sentence for social club fraud
