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Using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits requires an exchange. When they’re used properly, the exchange is between eligible beneficiaries and grocery stores for approved food items. The White Mountain Independent tells the story of an Arizona man who was convicted of felony fraud for using his SNAP benefits to exchange food stamps for heroin. (Definitely not on the eligible food items list.)
The article states that the Arizona’s Department of Economic Security (DES) acted on a tip about the drug trade and collaborated with the Public Assistance Benefits Fraud Unit and the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office to investigate and uncover the unlawful acts. (An encouraging example of state and local law enforcement working well together.)
The Grand Canyon State resident pleaded guilty to two felony charges: a class five felony for fraudulent schemes and a class six felony for unlawful use of food stamps. Upon his conviction, he was sentenced to three years of intensive probation and obliged to pay restitution and court costs. (Perhaps even more importantly, he will be ineligible to apply for or receive food stamps in the future.
The primary goal of the food stamp program is to give low-income families access to balanced, nutritious meals. Thanks to the cooperation of watchdog agencies and law enforcement, abuse and fraud in government assistance programs is being detected, investigated and punished.
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