Family Support Worker Rips Off £90k in Vouchers During Sick Leave
Gemma King’s £90,000 Fraud Scheme Uncovered
Gemma King, 39, claimed nearly £90,000 worth of vouchers from Family Fund Business Services over nine months from November 2018 to August 2019. She carried out the scam under the guise of legitimate funding requests while working as a Family Support Worker for Derbyshire County Council.
Scammed While Off Sick
King continued to submit fraudulent claims even when she was on long-term sickness leave. She used both her work and personal email addresses to request vouchers meant to help families in crisis.
Partners in Crime? Money Trails Lead to Husband
King was arrested for fraud by abuse of position and money laundering. Police probing her bank accounts tracked substantial sums transferred to a second account belonging to her then-husband, Jamie King. Although he initially denied involvement, detectives found evidence he actively helped conceal the stolen cash. He was charged with money laundering offences as well.
Justice Served With Suspended Jail and Unpaid Work
Gemma King pled guilty to money laundering and fraud. She was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered to complete 200 hours of unpaid work. Detective Constable Calla Millwaters said the case was “complex and emotionally charged,” adding:
“Gemma King abused her position to steal from the very children and families she was supposed to help. Her persistent fraud, even during sickness leave, eventually led to her downfall. Thanks to the hard work of all involved, new safeguards will be introduced to stop this happening again.”
