Story perspectives

Council Employee Sentenced for £493,487 Fraud Scheme

10/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Joella Preston defrauded her employers, Dartford Borough Council and Sevenoaks District Council, of £493,487 over nine years.
Routine checks in 2023 uncovered the fraud.
In February 2024, she was arrested and later received a two-year suspended sentence.
The court cited her remorse and efforts to address her gambling addiction.
The councils expressed regret, confirmed cooperation with Kent Police and the Crown Prosecution Service, and acknowledged the investigation.

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Story summary

Joella Preston defrauded her employers, Dartford Borough Council and Sevenoaks District Council, of £493,487 over nine years.
Routine checks in 2023 uncovered the fraud.
In February 2024, she was arrested and later received a two-year suspended sentence.
The court cited her remorse and efforts to address her gambling addiction.
The councils expressed regret, confirmed cooperation with Kent Police and the Crown Prosecution Service, and acknowledged the investigation.