Reporter at News 5 Cleveland
PARMA HEIGHTS, Ohio — Since June, Ohio has paid out more than $1 million to victims of food stamp theft.
“Just like there are criminal rings for stealing financial information from credit cards and debit cards, those same types of criminal enterprises are active in trying to steal SNAP benefits,” said Matt Damschroder, director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.'I thought it was a mistake' News 5 started looking into electronic benefits theft in mid-February after hearing from viewers.
“Not only is it criminal activity,” Damschroder said, “but it offends the human spirit even beyond the normal criminal activity.” Bell said she receives $291 a month. She’s been carrying a balance on her card, spending as little as possible while applying for jobs. Based on the repayment formula outlined in a state policy document, she might be able to recoup only $582 – forgoing $140.“I had a nice, comfy savings, but I don’t anymore,” she said. “And I’m terrified right now.”
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