Romanian Couple Charged with Embezzling Over 100K from Social Welfare Funds
A Romanian couple has been sentenced to 18 months in prison each for embezzling social welfare funds in Ireland. Cristan Turbat, aged 39, and his wife Dorina Turbat, 41, were found guilty of stealing over €114,000 from the system.
Overview of the Fraud Case
The Turbats, residing in Moyglare Village, Maynooth, County Kildare, committed approximately 500 counts of theft. Their fraudulent activities targeted multiple social welfare schemes, including jobseeker’s allowance, family income support, and rent support.
Financial Breakdown of Embezzled Funds
- Jobseeker’s Allowance: €64,504.30
- Rent Support: €39,483.20
- Family Income Support: €10,578.00
- Total Amount Stolen: €114,565.14
Upon the discovery of their fraudulent scheme, the Turbats fled to Romania but were later extradited to Ireland under a European Arrest Warrant.
Method of Operation
Over four years, Dorina Turbat submitted false claims for social welfare benefits, fully aware of her ineligibility, as her husband was employed. Cristan Turbat managed to maintain a job while fraudulently receiving these benefits under a false identity.
Discovery and Investigation
Investigations led by the Intreo Office in Clondalkin revealed extensive evidence against the couple. This included bank records and testimonies from local business owners who recognized Cristan as an employee.
Co-Defendant and Legal Consequences
Michael McMahon, the owner of the construction company that employed Cristan, was also prosecuted for allowing him to work under a false identity. The court ordered McMahon to pay €55,250 to the Department of Social Protection.
Outstanding Amounts and Court Sentencing
Authorities have yet to recover €34,490 of the stolen funds, and there have been no repayments from the Turbats. During the sentencing, Judge Martin Nolan highlighted the extensive nature of the fraud and its serious implications. While signs of remorse were observed from the couple, the judge ultimately sentenced them to 18 months imprisonment each, significantly less than the potential three-year term.
This case accentuates the critical need for vigilant oversight within social welfare systems to deter fraud. Persistent efforts are essential to protect public funds from exploitation.
