Greenwood, SC —
The South Carolina Department of Social Services has charged three women with food benefit fraud, including one from Greenwood County. According to special agents with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, Office of Inspector General, the three individuals were arrested over the past week for fraudulently receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The individuals charged are Erin Elizabeth Barber from Greenwood, Sasha Michelle Price from Dillon County, and Robyn A. Davis from Horry County. They each face one count of fraudulent acquisition or use of food stamps exceeding $10,000.
According to court documents, Erin Elizabeth Barber, 48, knowingly and willingly obtained SNAP benefits by submitting eight false SNAP application forms. Barber received a total of $21,445 in benefits during two separate periods: between April 2019 and March 2020, and again between October 2020 and September 2023. Following her arrest, Barber was booked into the Greenwood County Detention Center. The case against Barber is being prosecuted by the Eighth Judicial Circuit Solicitors Office.
Details of the Fraud Charges
The affidavit states that the fraudulent activity involved substantial amounts of money. For example, Barber’s charges are based on her receiving over $10,000 by falsifying SNAP application forms, a serious offense under current state laws. Authorities are pursuing these prosecutions to ensure the integrity of the SNAP program, which is designed to assist those truly in need.
Ongoing Investigation
The South Carolina Department of Social Services is continuing to investigate other potential fraud cases to prevent misuse of public resources. Special agents emphasize that fraudulent activities undermine the effectiveness of social safety nets, impacting those who rely on them for essential support.
Public’s Role
The Department of Social Services encourages the public to report any suspected fraud. Anonymous tips can help authorities identify and stop fraudulent activities that misuse public funds.
Conclusion
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of the South Carolina Department of Social Services to maintain the integrity of its programs. Monitoring and investigating potential cases of fraud is a key part of their mission to ensure that assistance benefits those who truly need it.
For more information or to report a case of suspected fraud, contact the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
Contact Information
If you have any news tips or story ideas, please contact Mya Atten at 864-943-5644 or email matten@indexjournal.com.
