Ryan Scott sentenced for £7,600 PIP fraud after 10k run

Ryan Scott, a 39‑year‑old plasterer from Torquay, Devon, claimed more than £7,600 in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) by telling the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) that a workplace accident left him unable to lift a phone, walk more than 20 metres or perform basic tasks. An anonymous tip led DWP investigators to photographs of Scott completing a 10 km race and to bank records showing he had returned to paid plastering work.

Surveillance officers filmed Scott climbing ladders, carrying heavy equipment and plastering walls, activities that directly contradicted his benefit claim. Exeter Magistrates Court heard that his claim should have been stopped from 31 May 2023 to 7 April 2024, resulting in an over‑payment of £7,625. He was convicted of benefit fraud, received a 15‑day community order, and was ordered to pay a fine and victim surcharge totalling £360. In court he apologized, citing depression and medication at the time of the fraud.

The case highlights DWP’s ongoing efforts to curb benefit fraud amid a growing welfare bill.