Over the past few years, millions of dollars worth of food stamps have reportedly been stolen from families across the nation, so much so that the FBI is reportedly getting involved to stop the EBT fraud. A government employee was reportedly caught changing PIN numbers, and scammers have reportedly utilized skimming machines to steal individuals’ information.
What is the government doing to crack down on the fraudulent activity? And what is being advised for EBT users?
The Shade Room’s Justin Carter is sharing answers on ‘TSR Investigates.’
Here’s How Government Employees Are Reportedly Connected To The Rising EBT Fraud
According to Carter, in 2023, $60 million of food stamp fraud was reported nationwide. Last month, 57-year-old Nadine Jean Baptiste was reportedly charged with schemes to defraud the supplemental assistance program.
As a decades-long principal clerk at the Department of Human Services, Baptiste allegedly changed PIN numbers on EBT benefit cards. Per Carter, Baptiste’s alleged scheme occurred over four years. Furthermore, the Department of Justice asserts that she assessed “approximately $191,000” through others’ SNAP EBT benefit cards.
However, Baptiste’s alleged scheme did not end there. According to Carter and the DOJ, the 57-year-old’s activity included her 27-year-old daughter, Octavia Jean Baptiste.
What Is Being Done About The Food Stamp Theft?
Furthermore, Tracy Ransom, a grandmother, spoke to Carter about her alleged EBT fraud experience.
“I was literally in Walmart crying,” Ransom explained, referring to the moment a fraudster charged her EBT card for $554.83. “… When I went on the app, and I checked my balance, I only saw $8.98, and I just broke down saying someone stole all my money.”
Scroll above to watch as Ransom shares how her EBT provider assisted her with the incident. Additionally, Carter speaks with another woman, Taquoya Jordan, who details her experience. Ultimately, Carter delves into how the government has been taking action and what EBT users should know.