Last updated 09:22, Saturday, 10 May 2008

A CARLISLE couple have admitted benefit fraud charges involving thousands of pounds.A CARLISLE man accused of murdering his uncle has made a brief appearance before a judge.

Kevin Lavery, 35,and Emma Rumney, 28, of Cant Crescent, Upperby, will be sentenced at the city’s crown court on June 5 after probation reports have been considered.

Lavery, who has a previous conviction for a similar matter, was warned by Judge Peter Hughes, QC, yesterday that all options were open, including custody. But Rumney was told to expect a community penalty.

Lavery admitted failing to notify the Department of Work and Pensions of a change in his circumstances between February 2002 and January 2007 which meant he received income support while working.

He also admitted failing to notify the authorities that, between other dates, he was living with Rumney.

Rumney admitted making false representations on an income support claim form and failing to declare a change in circumstances, namely that she was living with Lavery.

She also admitted failing to notify Carlisle city council of a change in circumstances relating to claims for housing benefit and council tax benefit.

Edward Sean Celmins, 24, of Dobinson Road, Raffles, was further remanded in custody until July 7.

Celmins is charged with the murder of Karl Celmins, 46, who was found dead in Stonegarth, Morton, Carlisle, a fortnight ago.