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Data analyst who conned €40k in fake claims from VHI avoids jail
Summary
A data analyst and gambling addict who submitted fake claims to VHI, resulting in the insurance company paying him €40,770 over nine months, has received a fully suspended two-year sentence. Daragh Kennedy (33) falsified receipts and claimed he had attended medical consultations that did not occur. When VHI investigated, the medical professionals involved confirmed that Kennedy had not attended as claimed. He immediately admitted to the fraud and explained that he had a gambling addiction, having gambled away the money. His insurance policy was cancelled, and he began a repayment plan. Kennedy cooperated with gardaí and admitted to the fraud, stating he has struggled with gambling since the age of 21. He has a third-level degree and has worked as a data analyst. He has repaid €17,400 to date and is making monthly payments. He has the support of his partner, parents, and has received help from gambling addiction services. Testimonials were submitted to court, and he has not gambled for over a year. Daragh Kennedy pleaded guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Data analyst who conned €40k in fake claims from VHI avoids jail. Charges or matters: one count of deception of dishonestly inducing VHI to pay him €40,000 between 2023 and 2024. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- June 2023 Hearing Or Sentence
- March 2024 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2023 and 2024 Other
- 2026-05-12 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: one count of deception of dishonestly inducing VHI to pay him €40,000 between 2023 and 2024 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Photo: Collins) A data analyst and gambling addict who conned €40,000 from VHI by submitting fake claims from his orthopaedic consultant and psychologist has been given a fully suspended sentence. He said he had decided Kennedy did not deserve a custodial term and handed down a two-year sentence, which he suspended in full on a number of conditions, including that Kennedy repay the remaining money he owes to VHI within two years.
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