Local government leaders have slammed a court decision to give community service to a benefits cheat. Havering LBC reacted with frustration after David Ham was given a 20-week jail sentence, suspended for one year, and 60 hours unpaid community work. Mr Ham admitted claiming £25,308 in housing benefit and council tax benefit, despite inheriting £44,821 in 2003. Applications by the council for £25,308 in compensation and £6,272 court costs were not granted. Council leader, Michael White said: ‘Where is the deterrent in a sentence of community service? If the Government is really determined to tackle benefit theft, then it must ensure that serious fraudsters are given serious sentences.' An LGA spokesman said: ‘Benefit fraudsters are cheating the taxpayer and taking money that could be spent on the genuinely vulnerable. Benefit fraud is not a victimless offence.'