Romanian Couple Accused of Stealing Over $100K from Social Welfare Funds
A Romanian couple has been sentenced to 18 months each for defrauding social welfare funds in Ireland. Cristan Turbat, aged 39, and Dorina Turbat, 41, exploited the social welfare system, stealing over €114,000.
Details of the Fraud Case
The couple, residing in Moyglare Village, Maynooth, Co Kildare, pleaded guilty to 500 charges of theft. The total amount embezzled included jobseeker’s allowance, family income support, and rent support payments.
Financial Breakdown
- Jobseeker’s Allowance: €64,504.30
- Rent Support: €39,483.20
- Family Income Support: €10,578.00
- Total Stolen: €114,565.14
The Turbats fled to Romania upon the discovery of the fraud but were later extradited back to Ireland under a European arrest warrant.
Method of Operation
During their four-year scheme, Dorina Turbat submitted fraudulent claims despite knowing she was ineligible because her husband was employed. Cristan managed to work under a false identity while receiving benefits.
Investigations initiated by the Intreo Office in Clondalkin uncovered evidence against the couple. They included bank records and testimonies from business owners who recognized Cristan as an employee.
Co-Defendant and Ongoing Investigations
Michael McMahon, the owner of the construction company where Cristan worked, was prosecuted for employing Turbat under a false identity. The court imposed a payment of €55,250 on him to the Department of Social Protection.
Outstanding Amounts and Court Sentencing
Authorities have yet to recover €34,490 of the stolen funds. There have been no voluntary repayments from the Turbats so far. During sentencing, Judge Martin Nolan emphasized the prolonged nature of the fraud and the serious implications of their actions.
Despite the gravity of their crimes, the court noted signs of remorse from the couple. After considering various factors, the judge sentenced them to 18 months in prison each, out of a potential three-year term.
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance within social welfare systems to prevent exploitation by fraudsters.
