Bedford man gets jail sentence for tax fraud

Bright Osaghae, 39, who worked with vulnerable adults, made up how much he earnt, claimed higher expenses and increased the amount of tax he paid on his alleged earnings.

He then filed his online self assessment returns, creating multiple repayments that were not due. But was caught out by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) when investigators noticed his scam, which took place between July 2013 and January 2015.

Paul Barton, assistant director, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC, said: “Osaghae had no thought for anybody other than himself as he tried to steal money that should have been funding vital public services. It was a blatant attack on the tax system.

“Anyone with information about people committing tax fraud can tell HMRC by calling our 24-hour hotline on 0800 59 5000.”

Osaghae pleaded guilty to three counts of fraud by false representation and was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for 12 months, when he appeared at Luton Crown Court on Monday July 18.

He was also ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work.

Civil proceedings are under way to recoup the proceeds of his crime.