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

Integrated Front Door Social Worker

Cheshire East Council
£40,444 - £43,149 per annum
Be part of a service that makes a real difference to children and families at the earliest stage of support! Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

SEND Caseworker

Cheshire East Council
£40,444 - £43,149 per annum
We’re on a meaningful journey in Children’s Social Care and we’d love for you to be part of it. Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Teacher

Durham County Council
£32,916 - £51,048 MPS1 - UPS3
WHAT IS INVOLVED?  The team at Aycliffe Secure Centre provide a caring, trauma informed and aspirational environment for young people aged between 10 Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Portage Worker - SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist

Durham County Council
Grade 8, £33,673 - £37,563 pro rata per annum
We are looking for a compassionate, skilled and enthusiastic SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker to join our highly regarded Portage T Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Work Consultant

Durham County Council
Grade 13 £48,738 - £53,051
Are you an experienced children and families social worker ready to progress your career and step into a management role?   Are you passionate about w Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner