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

Senior/Principal Regeneration Officer

Fareham Borough Council
£45,465 - £55,379
Our town centre regeneration is moving from planning to delivery, and we're looking for someone who wants to help make regeneration happen. Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Chief Executive

Hammersmith & Fulham London Borough Council
Competitive Salary
If you share that attitude and have the skills and experience to deliver, you could be our next Chief Executive. London (Greater)
Recuriter: Hammersmith & Fulham London Borough Council

Coroner's Officer

Essex County Council
£30404.0000 - £35769.0000 per annum
Coroner's OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£30,404 up to £35,769Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Coroner's Officer

Essex County Council
£30404.0000 - £35769.0000 per annum
Coroner's OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£30,404 up to £35,769 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Armed Forces Commissioner

Ministry of Defence
£170,000 per annum
This is a unique opportunity to serve as the independent champion for Service personnel London (Greater)
Recuriter: Ministry of Defence
Linkedin Banner