The Alabama Department of Labor this week announced eight Alabamians, including two Selma residents, had been convicted of unemployment compensation fraud.

The individuals were tried for making false statements in claims for benefits, according to a news release.

Rosie Burns, of Selma, pleaded guilty to receiving a total of $3,088 in benefits that she was not entitled to.

Burns pleaded guilty on July 1 and received 90 days in jail, which was suspended for two years pending restitution and two years of unsupervised probations. She was also ordered to pay court costs and restitution in the amount of benefits received illegally.

Alex T. Morris, of Selma, pleaded guilty on July 2 to receiving $4,885 in benefits that he was not entitled to. Morris’ plea deal included six months in jail, which was suspended for two years pending restitution and two years of unsupervised probation. He was also ordered to pay court costs and restitution of benefits.

Department of labor commissioner Fitzgerald Washington said unemployment benefits should not be abused.

“Unemployment compensation benefits can serve as a lifeline to those who truly need them,” Washington said. “However, we want to send a message to those who would knowingly defraud the system to obtain benefits they aren’t entitled to. This is a crime and you will be prosecuted.”

He added that timely reporting of new hires is one of the best tools to detect fraud.

Suspected unemployment compensation fraud may be reported to the Alabama Department of Labor by calling 1-800-392-8019.