A 59-year-old Belfast man has been sentenced for failing to notify the Social Security Agency of changes in his circumstances while claiming welfare benefits.

Patrick Larkin was sentenced at Laganside Crown Court on Wednesday to 16 months in prison, suspended for three years.

He was convicted of three offences related to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Housing Benefit.

Between October 2018 and March 2023, Larkin failed to inform the agency that his mental and physical health had improved while claiming PIP.

He also failed to disclose that he was cohabiting with another person between March 2018 and November 2023 while claiming ESA and Housing Benefit.

Detective Inspector Holmes said the investigation and conviction should reassure the community that benefit fraud offenders will be held accountable.

The offences took place between 2018 and 2023.