Lincolnshire couple sentenced for £95,000 fraud against Grimsby employer

A husband and wife were caught committing £95,000 worth of fraud against their former employer.

Matthew Payne, 53, received a 26-month prison sentence, while his wife, Debra Payne, 52, was handed a 22-month suspended sentence at Lincoln Crown Court on June 21.

The Paynes, of Withern, had both pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by false representation.

The couple, who managed and accounted for the Grimsby company’s finances, were found to have overpaid themselves significant amounts over several years.

Their fraudulent activities came to light after they left the company to start their own business.

The former employer discovered discrepancies when examining the accounts on the Paynes’ company laptops and reported the matter to the police in March 2020.

Lincolnshire Police's Criminal Investigation Department conducted a thorough financial investigation, uncovering the full extent of the deception.

Detective Constable Garbutt, who led the inquiry, said: "Both Mr and Mrs Payne abused their position within the company for their own gain, causing significant disruption and upset to both the victim's business and personal life.

“This lengthy investigation has resulted in justice for the victim, demonstrating Lincolnshire Police’s commitment to tackling fraud within our county."

A separate hearing will be held later to consider the recovery and confiscation of assets obtained through the crime under The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA).