SIR – The T&A editorial (October 25) rightly condemns benefit cheat James Crockett, and points out that his unacceptable actions are a very serious matter.

Judge Durham Hall, presiding, stated that the offence passed the custodial threshold.

Unfortunately, he then went on to say that he might be persuaded to consider suspending a prison sentence.

Why? No wonder we continue to see so many similar sentences when our judges so often do not impose the proper deterrent sentences that the offences deserve. This really has to change.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon