THE APPRENTICE - FORMER APPRENTICE CONTESTANT ACCUSED OF BENEFIT FRAUD

FORMER APPRENTICE CONTESTANT ACCUSED OF BENEFIT FRAUD

Tre Azam, who finished third in the third series of The Apprentice, has been charged with falsely claiming benefits.

The 29-year-old, who was notorious on the BBC1 reality show for his one-liners and outspoken nature, is accused of neglecting to declare income and two accounts on a housing and tax benefit form.

According to Essex's Epping Forest council, Azam received benefits while managing a consultancy firm and living in a semi-detached home worth a quarter of a million.

The council claims that Azam continued to claim benefits even though he was earning a salary from marketing consultancy company IDMM Ltd between October 31st 2005 and August 29th 2006.

It is also alleged that the Apprentice contestants used two bank accounts registered in his father's and wife's names, which he did not make the council aware of.

"These accounts were in the names of his father and wife, but he had access," said prosecutor Giles Atkinson.

"He used them to pay his mobile bill, his car insurance as well as everyday items such as food and clothing."

The case at Chelmsford magistrate's court has been adjourned and Azam - who now runs an offshore leasing firm as well as hosting a radio show - will return on Friday.

He denies the charges.