Seven people are facing charges after Pennsylvania investigators allegedly busted a “major” SNAP trafficking operation.
The Pennsylvania Office of State Inspector General reported that the “sophisticated” operation stole more than $775,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits over three years.
Related posts
Authorities stated the investigation focused on the Quick Stop Convenience Store in Steelton, Dauphin County, where the owner and staff processed benefits in exchange for cash.
In SNAP trafficking schemes, stores trade public benefits for cash at a fraction of the value, allowing stores to profit without supplying food, while beneficiaries receive cash to spend on anything they choose. For example, in this strategy, a retailer will complete a $200 transaction and offer the customer $100 in cash while pocketing the profit.
“By using sophisticated methods to defraud the SNAP program, these defendants not only stole from taxpayers but also exploited individuals in need. Pennsylvania does not tolerate public assistance fraud: we investigate it, we prosecute it, and we will continue holding accountable those who abuse these life-saving programs,” Pennsylvania Inspector General Michelle Henry said in a press release.
Solanyi Ramos, the owner of Steelton Quick Stop Convenience Store, was charged with employees Rafael Jermaine Powell and Wilson. Javier Garcia Matteo and Beatriz Rosario Acosta. Shawn Van-Jeffrey McCoy, Dorothy A. Wilson, and Shariah Denise Kiser, SNAP recipients, have also been charged, according to the state inspector general’s office.
If convicted, they may be required to pay restitution for the stolen public benefits.
Authorities stated that the multi-year probe required “extensive collaboration” among several entities.
