Bronx Food Stamp Fraud Lawyers

Rising Food Stamp Fraud Cases in the Bronx

In the state of New York, the cases of food stamp fraud is on the rise. In the Bronx, the cost of living is steadily on the rise, many people attempting to feed their families have committed fraud in exchange for services that are illegal under the state of New York laws. If you have been charged with food stamp fraud, you should contact an attorney as quickly as you can. It is imperative that you get out in front of this issue for obvious reasons. A food stamp fraud conviction could potentially ruin your life. You could face fines, suspension from the program, jail time and a ruined reputation.

Understanding SNAP and Food Stamp Fraud

Food stamps, or the SNAP program as it is referred to now, helps provide food for needy families. Unfortunately, there are some individuals who use exchange food stamps on their EBT card for cash, cigarettes, beer and other items. This is forbidden. Under the 7 U.S.C. 2024 any person on the SNAP program who defrauds in amounts under $100 can be charged with a misdemeanor. If you defraud over the amount of $100, you can get charged with a felony.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Nutrition Services has many ways to catch fraud. Several are not even known by the public. If you receive a letter in the mail stating that you are under investigation, the time to do something about it is now. These charges are serious. It is important that you have a strong defense when you go to court. Only a seasoned food stamp fraud attorney can help you with your case. The government is not there to help you. If you go to a hearing without benefit of a lawyer, you will soon find yourself in hot water by your own doing. A person unfamiliar with court proceedings can easily say or admit to things they should not. And it will be used against you. Let a professional do the talking for you.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

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Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You've been receiving SNAP benefits to feed your three children in the Bronx, but last month you sold $400 worth of your EBT balance to a bodega owner in exchange for cash to pay your rent. Now a caseworker has contacted you saying your account has been flagged for suspicious transaction patterns and an investigation is underway.

Can I really face criminal charges just for trading my food stamps for cash, and what kind of penalties am I looking at?

Attorney's Answer

Yes, food stamp fraud is taken very seriously in New York. Under New York Social Services Law §145-b, fraudulently obtaining or misusing public assistance benefits — including selling or trafficking SNAP benefits — is a criminal offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the dollar amount involved. If the fraud exceeds $1,000 in value, you could face felony charges under New York Penal Law §158.25 (welfare fraud in the fourth degree) or higher, carrying potential state prison time. An experienced attorney can review whether the evidence against you is solid, negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce the charges, and explore alternatives such as repayment agreements or diversion programs that may help you avoid a criminal record.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

The Prevalence of Food Stamp Fraud

While the instances of food stamp fraud are relatively low, the government will still come down on you if you are suspected of fraud. About 45 million people across the U.S. receive SNAP benefits. The rate of fraud is only about 1 percent. However, there are individuals who regularly attempt to scam the system.

Common Ways to Commit Food Stamp Fraud