Have we a case for a 'Criminal' offence?

Rent Arrears

We all know how the present system of how housing benefit is paid directly to the tenant is creating issues with Landlords throughout the country. The system only allows Landlords /Agents the right to discuss housing benefit payments once the arrears has been 2 months, when the Council then have to pay the Landlord /Agent directly. Ironically, no one seems to care that the Landlord has lost 2 months rent, despite the tenant having been paid their benefits. Being an ex police officer, is there not a crime being committed by the tenant, as surely they have obtained money by deception / fraud or even theft? This question is on the grounds that the tenant has applied for benefits, they have been granted payments but have chose to use the benefit to fund other things - not for the purpose they were given the benefit.
I would be interested in hearing your comments
Regards:
David Roberts
Elite Property Services
[email protected]