Thomas Bridge 01 October 2014

Council given 'taste of own medicine' as bailiffs seize computers

Bailiffs have seized thousands of pounds worth of equipment from a north London council to repay money owed to a resident.

Computers, TVs and printers were removed from a Camden Council office as enforcement officers attempted to recover more than £7,700.

The funds were owed to local hotel owner Stephen Gethin, who has claimed the council failed to pay rent for tenants receiving housing benefit. The High Court recently ruled in Gethin's favour, instructing bailiffs to be sent to the town hall.

However in a bizarre twist, Camden's assistant director of finance is reported to have ultimately paid the enforcement officers over £7,671 in cash at the scene.

Gethin told Ham & High: 'They've owed this money to me for a long time and this was the only way I was going to get it back.

'It's ironic because it's exactly what they do to other residents who fail to pay their council tax or parking fines on time.

'This is giving them a taste of their own medicine,' he added.

A Camden Council spokesman said: 'We can confirm that on Wednesday a High Court enforcement officer attended the town hall to enforce a county court judgement.

'Camden disputes the sums involved and is taking legal advice.

'In the circumstances we do not consider it appropriate to comment further.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Assistant Chief Executive

Enfield London Borough Council
UP TO £190,000
We are seeking a strategic and forward-thinking leader who can bring together HR, Legal, Strategy, Digital and Communications Enfield (London Borough), London (Greater)
Recuriter: Enfield London Borough Council

Executive Director of Environment and Place

Enfield London Borough Council
UP TO £190,000
We are seeking a strategic and forward-thinking leader who can bring together HR, Legal, Strategy, Digital and Communications Enfield (London Borough), London (Greater)
Recuriter: Enfield London Borough Council

Director of Children’s Services

North Somerset Council
£136,250 to £155,439 per annum
You will lead across education, SEND, safeguarding and early help, while helping drive wider organisational transformation and financial resilience. Somerset
Recuriter: North Somerset Council

Financial Assessment Officer (Adult Social Care)

The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council
Negotiable
Shape outcomes across two leading London councils as a Financial Assessment Officer, delivering vital support that makes a real difference to residents' lives. England, London
Recuriter: The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Council

No Wrong Door Team Manager – (Registered Children’s Home Manager)

North Yorkshire Council
£53,051 to £57,372 per annum
You will provide inspiring leadership, management and direction to staff, ensuring our culture, values and practice model Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner