A couple and their children have been sentenced to prison after they claimed that their family holiday was ruined by food poisoning.
Anthony Byng, 66, Barbara Byng, 64, Christopher Byng, 38, and Linda Lane, 38, claimed that they have suffered gastric illnesses during their all-inclusive stay at the Paradise Lago Taurito and Waterpark in Gran Canaria and filed a report against Jet2holidays.
The family could’ve received a payout of tens of thousands of pounds for conspiring to issue the fraudulent compensation claims.
However, photos they shared on Facebook show them enjoying in the water, with Linda Lane writing: “Me, Christopher Byng, Tony Byng, Barbara bying and kids on holiday at lago taurito.”
The family claimed that they, and the children they were traveling with, had suffered stomach cramps, headaches, diarrhea, sickness, and various symptoms because of food poisoning.
However, videos and photos showed the family drinking in the bar, swimming in the pool, and enjoying the waterslide.
No signs or mention of any illness were made despite the ‘severe’ symptoms they have all claimed.
On their return from holiday, Jet2 sent a survey to the family. When asked how satisfied they were, Cristopher Byng answered ‘Very Satisfied’ with the quality of meals, cleanliness, and the hotel.
When asked how likely are they to book Jet2holidays again in the next 12 months, he answered ‘Very likely’ despite the claims that their “holiday was ruined as a result of the illness.”
The family from Middlesbrough have been sentenced to four months behind bars after being convicted at Teesside Combined Court on February 26.
Anthony, Barbara and Christopher Byng received immediate custodial sentences while Lina Lane received a suspended sentence.
In addition, the family must pay a £20,000 interim payment in legal costs.
Steve Heapy, the CEO of Jet2holiday, said: “We have led the way when it comes to tackling the issue of fake sickness claims, and we continue to do so. Issuing a false claim for compensation is fraud, plain and simple, and we have been at pains to warn people that there are serious consequences if they choose to do so.
“Today’s ruling is the latest illustration of that, and it sends out a very stark message. We will not hesitate to take action against fraudsters, and the courts will not hesitate to punish them.”
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Replaced!