87 charged with public assistance fraud in March

EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) — The Office of State Inspector General (OSIG) stated in March that 87 individuals have been charged with public assistance fraud.

OSIG says the restitution owned to the Commonwealth totals $345,405 and the 87 defendants will be temporarily disqualified from receiving public benefits in the programs they allegedly defrauding.

“These charges highlight the Commonwealth`s commitment to preserving public trust and ensuring that public assistance reaches those in need,” said State Inspector General Lucas M. Miller.

Officials say 82 individuals are being charged with felonies and five are facing misdemeanor charges.

“Pennsylvania`s public assistance programs are a lifeline for people in difficult situations, and we must protect these resources for those they exist to help,” added DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh.

The maximum penalty for this offense is seven years in prison with a $15,000 fine and will also face a mandatory disqualification period from the benefits program in which they defrauded.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.