88 Rhode Islanders Accused Of Welfare Fraud

NORTH SCITUATE, RI — Eighty-eight Rhode Islanders were charged with welfare fraud after illegally collecting nearly a half-million dollars in benefits, State Police said Thursday. Sixty-two were arrested in recent weeks while the remaining 26 have warrants out. State Police Col. James Manni said the group collected about $469,000 over the past few years and did not disclose they had felony warrants — which disqualified them from collecting welfare funds.

"We are cracking down on public assistance fraud," Manni said. "Public assistance, the SNAP program and other state benefits are there for those who need and deserve them. We cannot and will not tolerate abuse of this system."

The felony warrants included charges of attempted murder, shoplifting and more.

The State Police Financial Crimes Unit, state Attorney General's office and Department of Administration Office of Internal Audit worked together on the investigation.

"I would like to thank the State Police and the Attorney General for their continued collaboration to help us combat fraud," said Dorothy Pascale, chief of the Office of Internal Audit, in a statement. "I also want to extend my appreciation to my team, who have worked with investigators to mine, match and analyze benefits data. This office serves a critical oversight function to ensure taxpayer dollars are protected from fraud, waste and abuse. Efforts like this help move our mission forward and enhance benefits program integrity."

The 62 people already in police custody were arrested over the last two months. All were charged with fraudulently applying for and receiving public assistance.