Long-Serving Council Worker Caught Pocketing £60k in Business Rates Fraud
Kerry Wheatley, a revenue finance officer at Bassetlaw District Council for nearly three decades, has been slammed for stealing over £60,000 in business rates refunds.
How Wheatley Pulled Off the Scam
Between October 2018 and October 2019, Wheatley rerouted 21 business rates refunds, worth £60,745.44, into a personal bank account. The fraud unraveled when her own address popped up on a refunded account during a routine manager’s check.
Quick Admission and Swift Justice
The 53-year-old from Whitwell, Worksop, confessed to the theft, blaming mounting credit card debts. She was immediately suspended, investigated internally, and dismissed for gross misconduct.
Wheatley pled guilty to fraud by abuse of position at Nottingham Crown Court. On Monday 15 March 2021, she was jailed for 12 months.
Police and Council Fire Warning Shots
“She was a trusted long-serving council employee but abused her position,” said Police Constable Dan Weaver. “I hope this case sends a clear message: fraud will be caught and punished.”
Neil Taylor, Chief Executive of Bassetlaw District Council, added, “This criminal act is a devastating betrayal of public trust. We take a hard line on fraud – the public can rest assured we protect their money fiercely.”
