AUBURN, Maine — Four Lewiston men and a Waterford woman were charged Wednesday with scheming to defraud the state welfare system.
Those who were indicted were involved in selling or buying electronic benefit cards (EBTs) that were issued to them through the Maine Department of Health and Human Services or trading them for drugs. In each case, the person who had been issued the EBT card was complicit in the scheme, prosecutors said.
The state is continuing to crack down on welfare cheats, said Leanne Robbin, an assistant attorney general who heads up the financial crimes division. She said she and her team of lawyers are working with officials at DHHS to investigate and prosecute welfare fraud cases. They also work closely with local law enforcement officials in the cities where the fraudulent activity is taking place, she said.
An Androscoggin County grand jury rose late Wednesday and handed up indictments against:
• Katherine M. Pike, 40, of 459 Plummer Hill Road, Waterford. She was charged with one count of theft by deception and one count of misuse of identification. From July 2010 until the end of March, she stole between $1,000 and $10,000 from DHHS’ Supplemental Assistance for Nutrition Program by using the EBT card that was issued to David M. Stain, 46, of 391 Lisbon St., Lewiston, according to the indictment.
If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison on the theft charge and up to 364 days in jail for the misuse of identification charge.
• Stain was charged with two counts of felony theft by deception. For two years, starting in February 2009, he stole between $1,000 and $10,000 from the city of Lewiston, the state and the federal government through the General Assistance program, according to his indictment. He gave the impression that Lisa Stain was not a member of his household when she was, the indictment says. From July 2010 to the end of March, he also stole between $1,000 and $10,000 from DHHS and the federal government by giving the impression that his EBT card was being used by him to buy food and household goods when he knew that wasn’t the case, the indictment says. If convicted, he could be sentenced up to a total of 10 years in prison on the two charges.
• Manny Souza, 20, of 391 Lisbon St., Lewiston, was charged with one count of felony theft by deception, one count of misuse of identification and one count of unlawful trafficking in schedule Z drugs. From December 2010 to March, Souza stole from DHHS and the federal government’s SNAP program by using an EBT card issued to Frank Ramsdell, who traded the card in exchange for marijuana, the indictment says. Ramsdell was charged in 8th District Court in Lewiston with the crime of theft as an accomplice, punishable by up to six months in jail, according to Assistant Attorney General Peter Black, who filed the charge.
• Christopher S. Frazer, 43, of 28 Walnut St., Lewiston, was charged with one count of unlawful trafficking in schedule W drugs, one count of felony theft by deception and three counts of misuse of identification. On Feb. 5, 2011, he was found with 90 oxycodone pills. From January 2010 to March 2011, he stole between $1,000 and $10,000 from the SNAP program by using EBT cards that were issued to Shannon Drummond, Robert Baylor and Duane Thomas, his indictment says. If convicted, Frazer could face up to 10 years in prison on the trafficking charge, up to five years in prison on the theft charge and a total of a year and a half in jail on the misuse charges.
• Robert W. Baylor, 34, of 128 Campus Ave., Lewiston, was charged with one count of felony theft by deception. Between January 2010 and March 2011, he stole from the SNAP program by giving his EBT card to someone else to use, according to his indictment. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.
To see more from the Sun Journal, visit sunjournal.com.
If convicted, all should be banned for life to receive any form of assistance.
Hate these people, call them scum. But our cruel corrupt system, which is turning us into a banana republic, is the real problem. Treat humans well, they do well, treat people unfairly, meanly, stupidly–we all sink.
Getting ahead today is like winning the lottery:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/05/us/harder-for-americans-to-rise-from-lower-rungs.html
There is never an excuse for stealing.
There’s no excuse for a country that destroys itself through greed and cruelty, which is the only thing effectively trickling down from the top.
I can be irrelevant too: There’s no reason for landing another man on the moon. It will be cloudy today if the sun doesn’t shine. Tomatoes grow better in warm climates.
SpruceDweller is okay….you, however, ought to go online to verify certain things….the moon shots were done in a controlled environment and are NOT scientifically acurate….for example, the USA flag was blowing, waving..impossible…..a vacuum atmosphere up there..they were reading from a script, too…….cloudy, windy, what ?? Cut down on the MSG , pal…..finally, tomatoes grow best in a bag of manure…..no sh*t…….hahaha…
Are you a conspiracy theorist? I have two theories – not conspiracy theories – about the flag that appeared to be flying on the moon. Most likely it was made to appear that way by the astronaut who planted it there. But even if wasn’t placed in such a manner, it’s possible the burnt gas of the blast from the departing moon lander could have actually caused it to wave.
PS: I did a little research after writing the above comment and came up with the following relevant link that blasts away the conspiracy theory: (watch video to the end – I’ll bet you won’t be laughing any longer)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMBCfuKs9i8
I can understand your viewpoint. Some people are using their benefits to run a black market. I guess it’s the poor man’s version of capitalism. The only problem with your hypothesis is that our system operates by using our taxes. We simply can’t afford to close one eye to fraud and blink the other.
These people are thieves and drug addicts, they are scum and need to be treated as such. They are stealing from all of us….end of story
Brenda Harvey, former DHHS commissioner under Baldacci, reported in October 2010 that Maine’s welfare fraud rate was 0.2 % and that the fraud rate nationally was 4.0 %
Her claim that Maine had 20 times less fraud than the nation was the biggest joke (and Lie) of the year. Who are the democrats trying fool with such ridiculous statements? Take better notes on that Democrat “Get a Clue Tour.” The proof is right under you noses.
In a side note, I talked with a young woman in Newport, Maine who said that she didn’t like Gov. LePage because he was the problem with her not receiving the benefits she was seeking. She said she was advised by the DHHS worker that the solution to the problem was for people to not vote for LePage. No wonder LePage has difficulties in reforming the system. He has to fight the entrenched state workers as well as the perpetrators of fraud.
I agree totally, the State workers are trying to protect their jobs by telling the “entitlement” society how to “work” the system.
I agree. Besides, the state worker who gave that advice needs to be reprimanded by the agency for unprofessional behavior.
Reporting Fraud in Maine
Allegations of fraud or attempted fraud involving funds, including Food Stamps, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services should be sent to:
Fraud, Investigation and Recovery
11 State House Station
Whitten Road
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
Phone numbers for this office are:
1-207-287-2409 and 1-800-442-6003
Further questions and suspicions can also be submitted by e-mail.
Do All three, Phone, E-mail and send a Letter.
Follow-up in 30 days with a Certified letter if no response.
Send a letter Directly to the Governor’s Office, that should get their attention.
Keep a written log of actions and attempts to notify. Hold them Responsible!
Will you do the same? Anyway, I doubt you’re message will get anywhere outside this relatively narrow forum.
Already have Done so, AND reporting More as they cross my path.
They can run but they can not hide.
Good Hunting, Spread the word!
According to WAGM-TV ,also contact the AG.
Very well put….
ptkitty: these are pretty serious accusations. What evidence do you have to back up these claims? If its valid I think action can be taken. Otherwise its opinion based on anecdote, intended to incite and that’s about it.
No disrespect intended, I just don’t think any of us benefit from, “Its the other side of the isle” arguments that do not have a basis in reasoned thought that is based on observable evidence. I am grateful to the enforcement system that continues to address this and other kids of fraud. I don’t think any reasonable person can say that fraud is relegated to a specific class of people. Nor is drug abuse, lying, steeling… etc.
PORTLAND PRESS HERALD–October 18, 2010 Article
“Truths of Maine welfare”
QUOTE “Perception: Fraud and abuse are rampant in the welfare system.
Maine’s documented rate of fraud is two-tenths of one percent, compared to a national rate of 4 percent, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.” UNQUOTE
Why does it surprise you that a DHHS worker would inform a client that her problem is with LePage and that her solution is to help get rid of him? This conversation was witnessed by several people. Why would anyone want to make this stuff up? Evidence is rarely provided in this forum. You will believe what you want to believe.
You will indeed believe what you want to believe. Will you also check that what you believe is real and sensible? Weather or not the forum here has a culture of reasoned thought vs incite and irrational arguments is a rather sad excuse to not value arguments based on logic and evidence.
You said “She said she was advised by the DHHS worker that the solution to the problem was for people to not vote for LePage.” Lets take this dubious quote as 100% accurate. It seems to me one might argue the DHHS worker was suggesting elected officials are elected. If you don’t like them, vote against them. Makes sense.
As for your PPH quote. You make no sense. The quote is saying rampant fraud is a perception, not a reality… given the evidence. >.< Are you suggesting that fraud in welfare is rampant? Are you suggesting voting against politicians you don't agree with is bad advice?
Yes, she’s suggesting that welfare Fraud in Maine is rampant. She’s also suggesting that political discussions initiated by state employees are inappropriate. Is this too hard for you to grasp?
That was not the first lie Harvey made. Did we ever get the truth about the exorbitant cost overrun for the DHHS Computer systems. I wonder if her husband’s company had any services paid by the tax payers for that boondoggle?
Only you would attempt a whinging defense of welfare fraud by blaming the fraud on our “cruel corrupt system”. Your arguments are specious and happily irrelevant.
agreed
Here is a valid question…Why is a 20 year old male receiving welfare benefits in the first place? Absolutely rediculous…. I understand single mothers and families in rough times…but a 20 year old man can’t find any form of job to support himself…DOUBTFUL..I’m sure they can find him a nice prison position stamping license plates.
Because he gets social security disability or lives with his mom and is claiming a seperate household, so he gets them and she gets them. But, I will say I have heard lots of the younger generation say that they won’t work for McDonald’s, Burger King, or any job that pays only minimum wage, welcome to the real world kids, it isn’t always easy.
Those fast food joints prefer to hire high school kids and don’t want long-term workers… they would end up having to pay long-term employees livable wages and health insurance, which cuts down on their bottom line. Ever noticed how young the workers are at the drive thru, even in the middle of the night? About 17, and that’s the way Mickey-Ds likes ’em.
There called entry level jobs for a reason. It’s their business and you can’t have your way.
Exactly what those jobs are for! Entry-level, minimum wage jobs should not be expected to provide a living for anyone. These are first jobs, sometimes second jobs and jobs for those who are semi-retired. If you have a family to support, learn a trade and get a different job or start your own business.
When I was 19, I got a job cleaning hotel rooms. Then I was able to move on to another job with some experience in the general work force for a little more money. Then got my first office job with experience from that, and on and on. I make an average wage, but it was earned through the years – not handed to me first thing. Why is not fair to ask people to start somewhere? I did, and many of you out there did. I wouldn’t have had the balls to ask for state help – you got to do some things for yourself. Geesh, there is nothing wrong with a entry-level job. Everyones got to start somewhere.
I agree….it is the entitlement these young people think they deserve….most likely due to another family member in his lifetime getting aid or still getting aid. He is too good to bag groceries. Most likely no education and thinks he deserves a job paying $30/hr.
He is getting it because we have such a lax welfare system in this state anyone can get it if they want.
LePage is trying to eliminate these people from getting certain freebies and the dems are crying about it…
Until we ensure that the ONLY people that get welfare are those that really need it, we will continue to get generations of families that refuse to work.
I’d like to see if these people charged with these crimes are in fact registered Democrats !
There is a good chance they are. That’s how Obama got in. Free health care for everyone that voted for him. If you are a member of the GOP, then you complain about the free gov. programs which means you have a J.O.B……..
There are many in my community who are on many different kinds of welfare. They are republicans because of their religious/social views. Many of them who have ATVs, campers, boats, snowmobiles, etc. It is inaccurate to assume that people on welfare are Democrats. Dems are the ones often being criticized on here because they are over educated.
There is no such entity as an over-educated democrat. If democrats had any brains, they’d be libertarians.
Doubtful. They are probably uneducated, hate minorities and gays because they’ve never met one, and vote Republican because the TV tells them to.
What if they are republicans ??
Do we care?
I think its funny to imagine that they are educated.
Obviously they are not the brightest crayons in the box!
That is so funny!!! I worked all my life, dont vote for the lesser of the evils, and you are problably right, these morons are voting!!! LMFAO!!
They are DEMS!!! ha ha
Do we know whether or not a single 20 year old when on the system has to show any paperwork of attempting to find a job, or replace the one he might have lost? I have wondered when people have SNAP, general assistance, or any other kind of support are people required to show an attempt at finding work? Don’t you still have to attempt to find work when collecting unemployment, or has that changed as well? (And I know you all would burn me at the stake if I mentioned you should not be able to turn down a job, either, so I will keep that one to myself).
I think it is great that the state seems to finally be doing something about the great amounts of fraud and abuse people commit to these programs. I know there is a lot of abuse to the program and am happy to see that at least this small percent of people are finally being held accountable for the abuse to the state help programs. But I am a 21 yr old who has received welfare benefits (food stamps) for about the past year while I finished up school. I am a married college students, who, last semester, had to be in school 40 hours a week with a husband working full time, who still struggled to pay the bills. We used our food stamps for the food we could not afford while I was in school. So it is not fair to judge the need of people by their age, like the people who are struggling while trying to make a better life for themselves.
Believe it or not, there are plenty of 21 year old college students who do not rely on food stamps. It’s called PLANNING AHEAD. If you cannot afford school and food, then you should WORK AND SAVE YOUR MONEY UNTIL YOU CAN GO BACK TO SCHOOL. Just because you decided you had to go to school RIGHT NOW doesn’t mean we should have to buy your Froot Loops.
What you are suggesting is that I dropped out of college after I finished my junior year, until I could pay for my senior year of school. And once I dropped out I would have the added expense of three years of student loans that I would have to pay off before ever considering going back to finish my last year. All to avoid the embarrassing fact that I between both incomes in my family, we still could not make ends meet. Or I could have avoided the embarrassing fact that I dropped out of school with only one year left after investing lots of money and money.
And yes, I know there are plenty of students who do not need assistance, remember, I go to school with them. Oh, and I used to be one. Students living on campus have the option to get a meal plan (not a great option for a senior who is not on campus during meal times and lives off campus; or her husband). Also, unmarried students without children (the average student) have financial aid packages that go off their parents income, which helps a lot with expenses.
I am an organized person who does plan ahead. I Planned Ahead to go to school now so I can support my husband when he goes to school. I also Planned Ahead to wait to have children until we are completed school so we can afford child rearing with out needing any assistance. I Planned Ahead for a better life for my future children by securing the fact they will never need assistance while in my care, and by setting an example to go to school as soon as possible so they can support themselves.P.S. I also Planned Ahead our food budget and bought the cheapest, store brand food (no frUIt loops) to stretch the aide we did get to last the entire month.
What I am suggesting is that you planned ahead and that you pay your way. Student loans? Plenty of people put themselves through college without going into debt. Not being able to make ends meet? That means you were not acting your wage and not living within your means. Plenty of people before you have learned to cut their lifestyle when times were tough. Embarrassed? You would have been more embarrassed to wait until you could pay cash for your senior year than you are about taking food stamps? Oh. my. goodness.
Glad to know you “Planned Ahead” to borrow your way into a pile student loan debt. Now those children you want to have someday will be raised by hired help (daycare) while you pay off tens of thousands of dollars in debt that you really could have avoided if you’d worked your way through school. Just wait, my dear, in about 10 years you’ll realize how flawed your logic was. The “better life” you are looking for will be yours when you learn to sacrifice and earn what you have instead of taking handouts and putting your entire future into debt because you just have to be in school right now and couldn’t wait a few years.
Oh, and the Kellogg’s cereal I referred to is named “Froot Loops”.
Okay, we both agree that this a good news articles. I do feel you are passing way to much judgment on my mindset, and the goals I created for myself and the decisions I made to achieve them for someone who knows nothing about me, my past or my current living situation. I know that I did/am doing the best I can in my situation so your judgement of whether or not I deserved food stamps when I got them does not phase me. I am just glad you are not the person deciding who DOES deserve them.
And once again, I have seen as much abuse to welfare systems as the next person and it disgusts me. I do believe reform needs to happen in the system. But the amount of money it costs to go to college also disgusts me and thinks that welfare is the the only system that could use some reform. Maybe the tax money that goes to people like the ones mentioned could be put towards a high education system – much more valuable to to the future of our great country. But then again, I’m sure people would find a problem with a system supporting free college.
“I am just glad you are not the person deciding who DOES deserve them.”
I’m a taxpayer and taxpayers are exactly who SHOULD be deciding who gets public assistance.
“I’m sure people would find a problem with a system supporting free college. ”
Nothing’s free in this world, sweetie. As Maggie Thatcher said, “The only problem with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people’s money.”
I can tell you are done with the discussion as am I, but I do want to say, I am also a tax payer, so is my husband. Tax payers helping taxpayers? A little better than taxpayers helping druggie losers, no?
There’s a problem with socialism? That why China’s number one right now right?The only problem with socialism is that greed makes it nearly impossible to flourish.
>>excuse me while I throw up in my mouth<<
I can now see how much your college education is worth. Good luck with that.
Thank you for the good luck wishes :)
I have also received many well wishes from my support networks of advisers, mentors, family, and friends who have told me they are very proud, as am I.I would also like to thank the state of Maine for the thousands of dollars they felt I deserved granted to me to earn this education, money well spent if you ask me. :D
The fact that you are married, do not have children, and choose to ask taxpayers to feed you while you attend college is disturbing to me. Do you not see how that affects those who are also scraping by to make ends meet, but who are unable to enroll in college for whatever reason, to better their own situation, but must pay, without a choice, towards bettering yours?
I AM A HARD WORKING TAXPAYER SCRAPING BY TO MAKE ENDS MEET!
My husband and I also pay taxes to support people who abuse the program.
You know, if it make you feel any better, all the taxes taken out my husband and my paychecks before the year we received assistance more than covered it – kay?
I am sorry our time of need DISGUSTS you but we never abused the program.
Disturbing – not disgusting. I find it odd, and even disturbing, that you cannot see how that affects others. Others in much more dire need, others wioth children to feed or elders to care for, may be getting less so that you can complete your education as you feel you should. Maybe get a 3rd job or 4th job to feed yourselves? Welfare should be used as a necessity not as a conscious choice.
While I commend you for continuing your education and for your husbands work ethic, I can’t help but wonder why you get the choice not to work and attend school instead – while taxpayers assist you with food benefits? I for one would love to go back to school and earn my degree in nursing – but I cannot – because my husband and I both have to work to put food on our table for our family. It just doesn’t seem fair (or right) to the rest of us.
Right on.
This woman is the epitome of the spoiled entitlement mentality of her generation. People with integrity work for what they have. They don’t expect others to support them while they embark on a whim they cannot afford.
My son enlisted in the Army Reserves right out of his school. By the time he turned 21, he’d already been deployed to Iraq for a year. He’s in college now with his tuition paid for and he has money in the bank. But you know what? He WORKED HIS TAIL OFF for what he has. He deserves it. You should be ashamed of yourself for sitting there with your hand out, expecting us to pay your way.
I was not even going to reply due to the incredibly blind judgments made but I do feel personally attacked.
Hogarth, who then deserves food stamps? Certainly not a young couple with both members of the family working with great work ethic, and still with no food to eat. At least we were trying to make a legitimate living for our selves unlike the mentioned people in the article!!!How dare you compare my families mentality to these five abusers.
Thank your son for his service. You know, (oh! no, you know nothing about me, my mentality or my family’s situation) my husband was also in the army right out of school, but got in a horrible car accident and was discharged after over a year and just a couple months before he completed his program. He would have loved to continue his career in the army if he could but due to the extent of his injuries will never be able to enroll again.My father and grandfathers were also in the service.You know nothing about what my parents and siblings have been though. I have definitely been raised to work for what I have and that is exactly what I have done.
You are the one who should be ashamed to make quick judgments
I will certainly never be ashamed of the path I choose, I am proud of the sacrifices I have made to better my family’s life in the future.
Here’s what I do know about you that is actually pertinent to the discussion:
You’re 21 and married. Your husband works. You *could* work. You choose to take food stamps so you can stay in college. I do not think what you are doing is moral. I think that you should have gone back to work and saved up some money so you could complete your senior year without needing to depend on food stamps.
Oh. My. Goodness. I DO WORK! I work 15-20 hours a week while in school 40 hours a week. I did not CHOOOOOOSE to take food stamps. Meaning, I am in the work force 55-60 hours a week (only the 15-20 paid thought), my husband 40-50 hrs. It not like were here dealing drugs for our food stamps. I DID NOT TAKE FOOD STAMPS TO STAY IN COLLEGE! Just so everyone is clear, I took them to provide food for my family. If I am at school 40 hrs a week and then working 15-20, I have a feeling that is more than any of you passing judgment on me. We are a hard working young couple trying to make it in this economy. Our morals are obviously different. Since you are a complete stranger do you think it changes me at all you do not think my college path is moral? I could care less! I am PROUD of the path I have choose and refuse to feel morally wrong or ashamed of the fact that two hard working people asked for a little food for their cupboards. And just so you know, if you have grand kids or anything, the path I took is the one they get told is the right one, the one they should be taking, you know, get out of high school go to college, eeeeveryday they are in school.
See my reply above. I suggest that once you complete your higher education and have greater earning capacity, you repay every penny you took in foodstamps. I think this is a fair resolution.
Pretty sure the taxes my husband and I have paid in the past 10 years covers it. Kay? Once again, it seems like it was assumed that I am not working, I’m working very hard actually.I think it is fair we got benefited from the taxes we paid. We are tax payers as well and in our time of need, we were able to get the help we needed.
You know what else I think is a fair resolution; that the people mentioned pay back every cent since they ABUSED the program. I think it will be fair when they spend a year+ in jail for it too. However, I did not abuse the program. If my husband and I had never paid a lick of taxes in our life, I would see that it would be a fair resolution, but we have paid our fair share as well, enough so that I know the amount of food stamps we received is a very small percent compared to what we have paid in.
What you’ve paid in is not yours alone. It is to cover every single other person who utilizes the system. So no, what you’ve paid in does not begin to cover what you’ve used.
I am going to say it again – I commend you for going after the American dream, working hard towards that goal, doing what is right to get ahead in this world. A college education is certainly something I want for my children. Mys son, for instance, was just accepted for next fall, and I could not be happier.
My issue is with what welfare is used for (or what our state has allowed it to be used for). Is it to help out a young childless couple who wish to further their education, who do work hard, yet need a little help to make ends meet? Or is it for the single mother who has been left alone to care for her infant, with no family, no home, no job…?
I am not saying what you do is illegal, I just don’t think welfare should be for your situation. This is a choice you’ve made. Not a desperate situtaion you found yourself in. I work 60 hours a week, and my husband works even longer hours. If we couldn’t make ends meet, we’d lose the cell phones, the Direct TV, the eating out, the 3rd car that our son drives. And I would work a 3rd job. I am sorry – but your 55 – 60 hours a week is not abnormal in this economy. If I had no children at home, I could work a whole lot more than 60 hrs a week. Sad to think we need to in order to survive these days…but I would most certainly do so before asking anyone to use their hard earned money to feed me.
But then again – I would rather help you out in your situation then help out the drug abusers. It would be nice if we had a choice. Unfortunately, the welfare system forces people who pay taxes to pay for everyone, regardless of who they are, why or how they end up in the system, and in doing so, leaves little, if any, money left for us to be charitable to those we choose.
Now that’s what I’m talking about Wendy! We both agree reform should happen.
I know my hours are not abnormal, even with the fact that I had to pay thousands of dollars to work 40 hours of my hours. And I agree, it is ridiculously sad that those are the terms needed to survive in this economy. I will say my husband and I have lived well in our means, we have one shared phone, one shared vehicle, no Direct TV or any TV at all for that matter, we don’t smoke, drink or do drugs, and the only reason I had to obtain internet was for school. I wish the economy was in a better state, that school was free because I agree that between my husbands income and mine, we should be able to feed ourselves. We did not enjoy asking for a handout. I do feel though that we could not because of the condition of the economy and I am glad the state decided that was reason to help a working, schooling couple out.
I also agree that a woman in the situation you mentioned should most definitely be a priority over my situation. That is why I believe a large reform needs to happen, to make sure that people in a similar situation to the one you described gets the help they need, and then… when help is being give, so is the information, education and the help needed to make sure that person does not end up in the situation again. Also to ensure that when help is being given, it is not being abused, such as drug testing, checking to see if they are attempting employment or education or whatever is necessarily for that particular situation. Unfortunately, I feel many people would rather cut the entire program rather than taking the (I know its a very large) process to reform it. But in the long run it would only benefit the people and economy of Maine.
Apparently the solution is for you to use state aid so you can go back to school. We need more nurses, so you can rationalize that you are doing the people of Maine a true service by accepting food stamps and LiHeap and Maine Care while you pursue a degree using subsidized loans that could possibly be forgiven if you choose to work in a needy community.
But I truly understand what you are saying. I have a family and have had to work for the past few years rather than be home with my kids because we need the money. I would love to be home with the kids; I would love to go back to school. But right now, we need the money. I could stay home if we used state services to help cover our bills. We could qualify for SNAP, WIC, LiHeap, and probably Maine Care. Instead we both work and pay our food bill, and our heating bill and our health insurance premiums.
On the other hand, I’d rather have state money help out someone who is at least attempting to better his or her life by going to school than someone who is just hanging around. I just don’t understand why some people find ways to support themselves and achieve their goals, while others accept government aid to do it and feel it is justified.
We all would rather stay home and raise our kids if we could…but it is not ok to do so at the expense of others.
I wonder if I said I wanted to go back to school to become a lawyer, or a banker…would that be ok as well?
I understand what you’re saying – but to make a conscious decision to go back to school, and use taxpayer funds (from people like me who are working for my family’s food instead of going back to school) is not right.
You know, I have to agree with you….
I did not choose to work or go to school – I did both. I continue to work on weekends and evenings while paying about four thousand dollars to student teach (the last part of my degree program) 40 hours a week. I do understand that it would be difficult to go back to school with full time employment and children, have you looked into online classes or part time enrollment? My mother is an R.N. now, who went back to school when she was 40, three young children and a full time night job.
I think you’re mising my point. IF we could afford tuition, and I could keep my full time employment (for the benefits), made the same money so we could continue to support our family, etc…I could go back to school. However, at this point, it is impossible. In lieu of that – I am not willing to ask others to assist me financially so that I can do so. So, I will wait until my children are raised, or until we CAN afford it ourselves.
I am sorry you feel there is something impossible to accomplish in your life. This is why I believe college should be just as accessible as public k-12 schools.
I am also sorry that you think its unfair a young couple paying the crazy price of tuition, working 40-60 a week each, trying to prepare for the future and make a better life found themselves with empty cupboards turned for help and got a little, just for food. If anything, I would think this is the kind of person I think should get it – no food on the table but working our butts off so we will never have to worry about it again.
Impossible at this time in our lives is different than impossible period. As I stated – I would rather wait and do it on my own dime when able rather than ask others to pay for it for me. I would rather our welfare programs be used for emergency needs and for those who are unable to provide for their own (unable being the operative word) and not for those who feel entitled to a better way of life at the expense of others.
That being said, I applaud you for working hard towards making a better life for yourself and your family. I certainly would rather be helping you out in doing so rather than the person who defrauds the system or is simply too lazy to take advantage of the many opportunities available to better their way of life.
I think a fair resolution would be that people like MaincerCB, after she gets her education and improved earning capacity, repay every penny of the food stamp money her family received. I agree with WendyyA’s comments–why should we the tax payers foot the cost of your choosing to obtain higher education? Lots of us went back to school later in life and attended nights or part time and didn’t take a dime from the taxpayer to education ourselves.
Some people on this blog just tend to judge people, period. Most of the time they know nothing about those they are judging. There is no where near as much fraud as people think there is. And no, I am not a recipient. I am retired and also work 2 part-time jobs. I received AFDC,Medicaid and food stamps as a single parent in the 70’s. As most of those on welfare, I did what I had to do to support my family. I’m sure I was judged too.
The 20 year old wasn’t receiving welfare benefits. Read carefully: ” Souza stole from DHHS and the federal government’s SNAP program by using an EBT card issued to Frank Ramsdell”
good point. my bad..he’s still a deadbeat though.
I live in a small town and had a guy in his 20’s from the same town (and who I know)purchase food with his welfare card and then after that transaction purchased 2 packs of cigarettes with cash. I almost punched him in the face but decided against it because his medical care would come out of my pocket as well! Should be mandatory drug tests and health screenings. I had to take a drug test to get employed why shouldn’t somebody have to in order to get free money.
According to the courts you can not drug test one class of people you either test everyone in Maine or no one .
Employers can test anybody seeking employment. That’s one class of people. IT”S A CLASS OF WORKING PEOPLE who support themselves and their families. If you need the assistance of an EBT card but still smoke 2 packs a day then your priorities in life are messed up and you are plain and simple stealing from your neighbors. This is the same for any ounce of alcohol you drink or any joyriding in your vehicle or texting on your cell phone. There should be more of a process and maybe a counseling session to assist in lifestyle changes in order to qualify for welfare. To have the gall to make a purchase with and EBT card and then fork out cash for a sickening habit is wrong. We’ll be paying for this guy 4 times over in the long run. I will say that this program if used in the correct way is for single moms/dads or families that fall on hard times. You twenty somethings that are physically able need to get off your asses and find jobs. This is why there needs to be a winning team and losing team in kids sports. This is why everybody shouldn’t get a trophy just because. These kids are graduating and think they deserve something just because. So to all you lazy bums who get $9.99 cable and free 250 minutes of cell phones get a damn job. Those of paying $100 for cable and $100 for cell phones are supporting you.
Oh thats right, we wouldnt want to infringe on the rights of the people that are concidered to be in a lesser class.
That to me sounds like we are classifying people because they may need a hand.
Is that any more ethical than making them pee really? Or is that another stupid loophole? This stuff cracks me up!
Make em pee!!!
There are people who need a hand and then there are those who get everything while they chain smoke, drink, eat junk food and buy scratch offs and who have a cell phone, cable TV and Internet.
If they can buy/pay for all of those things then they don’t need a hand.
If you are thinking about punching your customers in the face when there are security cameras there,you have bigger problems than he does.And I have yet to hear of $10 cable.What county would that be in?
I was a customer, not a store owner. I do apologize not $9.99 cable, I was wrong, it was $9.95 internet service for those who have children that qualify for free lunch through Comcast. Better yet you even still qualify even if you have cable service. Here is the link: connect2compete.org/press-coverageSo you can have a kid on reduced/free lunch, afford a cable package and get $9.95 internet. Shouldn’t it be do without the luxuries (cable/internet) and take care of the necessities (kids lunch)? Oh yeah that wouldn’t be fair because everyone else has it.Come on people!
Fair enough.I was thinking you were a cashier.I did not know of that service and you are right that there needs to be prioritization.The sad part is,there are too many bad parents out there.I wish it was different.
Let me ask you this-the drugs for the elderly program that LePage wants to eliminate,the TOP income for one person is about $16K/couples $22K before the cuts.Now if you are on WIC you can have $28K income and still get benefits as a younger person-and to your point about the store angle-the store in my town has $3.99 bread marked as WIC eligible.Of course it is but so is the $1.50 bread which is not marked as WIC.Yet someone sees the WIC sign and thinks that is the only thing they are allowed.CHING!How many $4 loaves of bread are sold instead of $1.50.It’s all legal.
I’d LOVE to see food stamps toughened up for starters.Something that would work with the Guiding Stars program in Hannaford?
My nephew had to take a drug test to work in a shoe store one day a week.He was not operating machinery,waiting on customers or running a register to my knowledge-just stocking shelves at minimum wage.He passed and is happy for the money-but did he NEED to take a drug test?
Did he have to? Probably not. But I would think as an employer I would want competent people working for me and I’m sure the drug screening assists the employer with insurance/workers comp rates. I know your nephew was one day a week and I’m sure has no benefits with the company. But I bet you it has opened your nephews eyes and the next time a joint gets passed around at a party that his experience will atleast make him think twice. I work for a company and that requires drug screening. I had a conversation with the human resource person and they stated that you would not believe how many people go through the interview process and then when asked to show up for a drug screening skip the appointment and are never heard from again. These are people capable of working. What’s the alternative-welfare.
Good point.He is a good kid but everyone makes mistakes.So far he has made none that will harm him later in life.I worked as an administrator for a temp agency and we knew one of our competitors rarely drug screened.If we had someone we thought might be a problem, we’d pull out the paperwork and gently edge them down the street.The other larger point is America is crazy with its drug messages.We have “Just Say No”and then a million ads from Big Pharma.And the kids who do get in trouble are stealing pills right from the house.You don’t even need a dealer on the corner-just Grandma.
It sounds as though you and 30 other people may have an anger management problem.
Drug testing for recipients of drug testing is unconstitutional, as it is an unreasonable search.
It’s passed in other states – Florida for one. Welfare is a taxpayer provided service. It needs to be considered a privelage to assist people that have fallen on hard times. That is why I am in favor for those who truly need the assistance. What I oppose are the ones that think it’s their right and consider the welfare as income to offset their drug, alcohol and nicotine habit. I’m not slamming those who are in need. Those who can swing 2 packs of smokes a day but won’t buy a gallon of milk for their kids.
Again- it’s getting to the point you need to pass a drug test to be employed and have to pass a drug test to join the military. Apparently you think free money should be just that with no strings attached whatsoever. Got to look a little deeper. Maybe a drug or alcohol problem is preventing a person to function which makes them unable to work. Maybe there needs to be a plan for those who test positive to have an avenue for recovery. It is being used beyond the intent and the misuse needs to be curbed is all I’m saying.
I think although I am not positive that the FL law is on hold at this point due to court challenges.I would love to see drug tests given.I could pass one-but I don’t get welfare.
Im with you. How the HE// is that. Born and raised on welfare?
My real problem is the amount that it will now cost US ALL to feed the NON PRODUCTIVE members of society in jail!
The other thing is, they didnt just start doing this. I am sure they have stolen 100,000.00 of thousands of dollars this very way over the years they have been raping the system!!
Feed a man fish, you fed him for the day, teach a man to fish, you have fed him forever.
If you dont work, you dont eat!!!
This type of fraud is huge in Maine but democrats think it is minor and want to leave everything the way it is.
I’m a democrat and I don’t feel that way.
Good for you, I should have said “most” but not all.
The Democrats in the House said just yesterday that there is NO welfare fraud!!!! Good for you, stand up for what is right!!!!
ALL the democrats did? They ALL got together and siad publically that we ALL believe that there is no fraud at all? 100%? I doubt you speak the truth.
Then the Leader of the Democrats should not have said it.
Please, could you supply me with the direct quote? Maybe a link or a video? Thank you.
I have a feeling you aren’t going to get that link. Just a hunch
http://www.wabi.tv/news/26512/lawmakers-work-begins-as-legislative-session-now-underway Go to this news link and watch the clip.
At no time does she say in that clip that there is no fraud in the welfare system. She’s merely responding to the governor’s claim that fraud is rampant.
It was Emily Ann Cain D Orono, minority leader of the house. I saw her on wabi tv 5. call her and ask her what she said.
I’m the same way
More often than not you and people like you will say these kinds of events are few and not representative of the whole program and not worth the effort to pursue. I think this is just the tip of the iceberg.
“…and people like you….” So, I tell you I do believe there is fraud and you still refuse to hear because ‘people like me’ can’t possibly, in your mind, grasp the reality that fraud exists in the system. You’ve no idea at all what I think because it interferes with your preconceived notions. Using your logic, ALL welfare recipents are shysters.
My point is that most lefties can’t smell the fraud until their noses are in it.
Take a look at Sprucedwellers comments. Those are more akin even with fraud plain as day according to him its all someone else’s fault. You people are fraud facilitators.
“You people”? Still stereotyping? I believe you are prejudiced, just plain and simple, really. Because you paint everything one color, you are not believable. You are just angry and name calling. I’d shut Fox off. That’s exactly their line: just blame ‘them’, whoever ‘they’ are, for any given situation. Try dealing with the issue instead of ‘them’.
You see, your immediate response is that somehow Fox news is involved. Nice of you not to stereotype. You are a facilitator.
I have been called all the names you have been called and more, lefties only know how to attack people personally, then blame Fox News.
I’ve told you point blank I do no condone fraud against DHS, yet you still call me a facilitator. I have no idea how you come up with me facilitating fraud against our government. Obviously you do not wish to engage in intelligent conversation. Obviously you have your mind made up about others who make an attempt to engage you. You are nothing more than a bigot, plain and simple. You, sir, are what’s wrong with republicans today. Republicans will die because of party loyalists like you. The republican party is dead because of folks like you.
Not for a second would you consider a Republican candidate and you know it. You favor a system the builds fraud and then when some fool gets caught you condemn them, then you walk away feeling all smug and self satisfied. A traditional liberal position. If you really meant it you would condemn comments like SpruceDweller’s above. But you don’t.
Whatever
See
I would have considered McCain…If he hadn’t been paired with Crazy….She’s a real winner!!!
YOU people….careful careful….I bet you never thought of yourself as a biggott….Those words are VERY discriminatory! YOU PEOPLE (ie conservatives) would rather throw all our tax dollars down the war/world wide babysitter/Bail out the corperations hole and us “lefties” would rather see it go down the helping people domestically hole….I still think that I am on the winning team 8)
“people like you” is a blanket statement that only does harm to your stance…Just like the blanket statement Ms. Cain made stating, “There is no fraud in welfare”. Neither statement does much but rile people up! I’m a “lefty” but tend to be more conservative on issues that involve money…welfare, immigration, etc….But I’m not ready to throw out the baby with the bath water either! I’m glad that these folks who are abusing the system are being punished very publicly…..It sets a precedent for others….if you need help, fine. If you abuse that help you end up worse then you were…There should always be a risk when accepting a handout…if there isn’t one people will ride the welfare train FOREVER!!!
Me too! I’m for welfare for those who cannot take care of themselves! Like small children whos parents need support or the elderly….I think disability has gone out of control!!!
How do you Know?
Have YOU got a Connection?
If they are convicted and they are found to have committed an “Intentional Program Violation” they will be banned from receiving, if I remember the laws correctly. If that isn’t correct then, if this is their first offense, then they have one year off the program, if it is their second offense they are off for two years, if it is their third offense, they are off the programs for life. Nice huh?
There is A LOT more “entitlement” fraud going on in Maine than many are willing to admit the possibility of………….and we FINALLY have a governor and commissioner who is willing to tackle it!!
Yeah there is!
http://www.progress.org/banneker/cw.html
kudos to the governor Paul LePage, I say drug test them all
“The state is continuing to crack down on welfare cheats”…continuing?…I really doubt this statement…There is plenty of fraud going on…step it up more. These people should be banned for good and no more State Aid…..you fraud the State, you lose aid for good. The Maine Court system better throw the book at them to the maximum extent of the law….and not just a slap on the wrist. Start making people learn.
Maine should have a 1-800 number to have people report in all the abuse cases known. I bet it would be alarming as to how much abuse is in the system that we currentlt have. Just ask care givers and you will get an earful. The 1-800 number would give protection to care givers as the current system discourages reporting abuses. We have an obligation to provide for the truly needy and allowing abusers to take advantage of the system only hurts those in real need.
The State of Maine will not do anything if you call them and report fraud! My wife and I have called on many valid cases, and nothing has been done. We don’t even get our phone calls returned. Democrats are still in charge, until that changes nothing will change. Democrats will not stop giving money to the people who vote for them.
I know, the lack of concern is ,Terrible.
I called and reported the Alien Invasion and no one returned my calls either.
Maybe it is because you arrived alone.
You think this is funny??????
I have called and reported two valid cases and told them I could prove them by showing them on Facebook. They said that they couldn’t do that, but it’s funny every other law enforcement agency is using Facebook to solve crimes, DHHS needs fixing, the lady gave me the impression that I was bothering her. I bet if I could get through to Lepage directly, he would take the time to investigate these two fraud cases that have been going on for quite a while.
Maine does have toll free numbers. Here’s the list: Social Security Fraud/Office of the Inspector General/1-800-269-0271 Food Stamp Fraud/Office of the Inspector General/1-800-447-8477 Housing/Section 8/HUD Fraud/Office of the Inspector General/1-800-347-3735 It should be every tax payers duty/obligation to report any and all residents in the State of Maine who are fraudulently receiving benefits from any of the above, after all it’s your tax dollars they are stealing.
I thank you for posting the numbers, but nothing will be done!! I am not saying to do nothing, call baby call. We are going to need to flood the place with calls then maybe, and I mean maybe, something will be done.
Reporting Fraud in Maine
Allegations of fraud or attempted fraud involving funds, including Food Stamps, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services should be sent to:
Fraud, Investigation and Recovery
11 State House Station
Whitten Road
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
Phone numbers for this office are:
1-207-287-2409 and 1-800-442-6003
Further questions and suspicions can also be submitted by e-mail.
Do All three, Phone, E-mail and send a Letter.
Follow-up in 30 days with a Certified letter if no response.
Send a letter Directly to the Governor’s Office, that should get their attention.
Keep a written log of actions and attempts to notify. Hold them Responsible!
I said that same thing about people who are abusing unemployment benefits and was told by a state auditor that they only have so much time to do their work and not enough investigators to nearly handle all the fraud complaints they get. : (
Report Unemployment Fraud
Unemployment insurance fraud is a crime. You can report instances of unemployment
fraud, questions and suspicions by phone, email, fax, or mail.
Your name can be kept Confidential.
Call the Benefits Division at (207) 621-5100
or the Unemployment Claim Center at 1-800-593-7660.
Send info to Mr. Gerry Parent in one of the following formats:
Email to Gerald.P.Parent@Maine.gov
Fax to (207) 287-8351
Mail to:
Bureau of Unemployment Compensation
Attn: Mr. Jerry Parent
47 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0047
CONFIDENTIAL
Do All three, Phone, E-mail and send a Letter.
Follow-up in 30 days with a Certified letter if no response.
Send a letter Directly to the Governor’s Office, that should get their attention.
Keep a written log of actions and attempts to notify. Hold them Responsible!
Only 5? Please get them all; headline should read 1000 indicted on welfare fraud. Get them all and we will all be better off.
I work in retail and I see it every day. If only the cashiers were allowed to report when recipients are abusing benefits. But then again, who’s to stop them? There is little regulation with food stamps and absolutely none when it comes to the cash balance on the EBT card. They can take it out of the ATM and buy bath salts with it and there’s no one to stop them.
I’ve worked in retail as well. In 2006 under circumstances too lengthy and painful to go into here,I applied for GA.After mounds of paperwork I was told I would be eligible for $58 for one month’s time.The woman behind the counter detailed the ins and outs.A neighbor bought me cat food for the month at 40 cents each.(which I told her I would pay for when I could)When I went back the next month they asked how I fed my cats.I told them and they said I “wasn’t properly reporting income”Are you happy now?
This is the most politically motivated, engineered story the Penguin administration has cooked up all week.
You are without doubt the most foolish of any who post on here !
Baloney. This is reality. If you want to make a political issue over it, you can do that. But politics did not cause these folks to break the law.
Sounds like the view from the top.
But wait. Thought there was no welfare or voter fraud in Maine?
No rich people either!
Stop letting them buy alcohol, tobacco and lottery with the EBT card and I might actually believe that you’re “cracking down” on it.
When I was a kid we got food if we needed it. The town office had it. They had cheese, canned meat, powdered milk, rice, and corn syrup. I was poor, but did not starve!
You do understand that program is a government program right? http://www.fns.usda.gov/fdd/aboutfd/fd_history.pdfIt was started during the depression era…by…wait for it… a Democratic administration. So, basically you didn’t starve because of a bunch of Democrats. Think about that for a minute.
Personally, I’m good and tired of listening to “Democrat vs. Republican” blame being used as a crutch to solve what should be a simple problem to solve – that is, get the welfare ABUSERS off the rolls.
I’ll be an independent until the day I die because of it. I’m sick of the talking points.
Nonetheless, I really hope if they are found guilty, that they not only throw the book at them, they whack them over the head with it a couple of times after, because there are people who truly need help out there and they’re the ones who are going to lose it because of the abusers of the system.
I do not care who started the program when I was a kid, I said it was a good one, and that is the way we should do it now.
I am not saying do away with welfare, some people need it.
I am sorry you are tired of listing to Dems vs Rep, but the Democrats in the Maine House just yesterday said “there is no proof of welfare abuse”
If a Republican said the same thing I would go after him in the same way.
I see your point – still, we are again referring to ‘Democrats vs. Republican.’ There is no need to be ‘sorry’ about anything. I enjoy a good civil discussion (despite my BDN moniker). :)
This is what ends up dividing people to the point of picking team A to team B and then nothing gets accomplished but quibbling and arguing over who’s right IMHO.
I blame both parties equally for having their collective heads up their…well, you know where.
Personally, I think a requirement for running for office be that they should work for minimum wage somewhere and try to pay their bills by it for a minimum of 1 year. Then they can tell us they ‘understand’ the plight of those who are on welfare.
I’m thrilled that there are people who are capable of working nearly 24 hours a day and then go on to be successful, and I do believe they should be able to keep a good portion of the money they earned; however, not everyone can do that, and there are many people who once had a good paying job who have now lost it. Think of all of the 2nd mortgage companies that popped up like mushrooms during the ‘boom” – how many are left standing now?
Be that as it may, I am excrutiatingly aware of many people who work 2 or more jobs (service of course because really – what else is there here?) for minimum wage and have roommates to boot.
They not only can barely pay their out-of-state “investment” slumlord rent, they ride a bus or walk to and from work. Yet, somehow we only seem to hear about the abusers. This is interesting to me.
At the end of the day, they are the ones who’ll pay for the sins of the bottom feeders that the state won’t have the cahoonas to boot. I find that sad. Usually they work for some convenience store, restuarant, cleaning company, or direct care services (and/or other ‘self-employed contractor’ no benefits) jobs. Some are not capable of going back to school even if they wanted to, and they can’t just magically ‘poof’ a decent paying job out of thin air.
I sincerely hope this state can turn around before we fully become the “Vacationland” we’ve prostituted ourselves as for so long and is filled with more than people who make their money elsewhere to come here and ‘play.’
I agree!
Why r u blaming the Democrats for peoples stupidity
Probably because the Democrats are the ones enabling them! If you tell your kid to get a job, and give him $30.00 every day as he heads out the door; do you think he will ever get a job? Tell him to get a job, or he is out of the house, the kid will have a job in a week or less.
I disagree with you…I understand what your saying but I am not going to blame the Democrats for peoples stupidity.
________________________________
From: Disqus
To: pcreserve2007@yahoo.com
Sent: Thursday, January 5, 2012 8:03 AM
Subject: [bdn] Re: Five indicted in welfare fraud schemes
Disqus generic email template
MEplyydog wrote, in response to Pamela 058:
Probably because the Democrats are the ones enabling them! If you tell your kid to get a job, and give him $30.00 every day as he heads out the door; do you think he will ever get a job? Tell him to get a job, or he is out of the house, the kid will have a job in a week or less. Link to comment
Tell me, Are the Democrats stupid for creating a welfare system like this?
Or are the cheaters stupid for taking advantage of that system that’s built for fraud?
Or is the taxpayer stupid for putting up with it?
They are not children and you can’t blame the parents…we know what is right and what is wrong..blame the stupidity of the people or should I say children but it seems like the ones who got caught were adults and because of this we have our elderly that are going to suffer or maybe we could blame the people who are doing the processing of these claims…how did it get pass them…someone wasn’t doing their job. You cannot blame the Democrats for this…sorry but you will not change my mind.
________________________________
From: Disqus
To: pcreserve2007@yahoo.com
Sent: Thursday, January 5, 2012 4:47 PM
Subject: [bdn] Re: Five indicted in welfare fraud schemes
Disqus generic email template
Cheesecake1955 wrote, in response to Pamela 058:
Tell me, Are the Democrats stupid for creating a welfare system like this? Or are the cheaters stupid for taking advantage of that system that’s built for fraud? Or is the taxpayer stupid for putting up with it?
Link to comment
I wonder when they are going to get around to the woman I reported who is on MaineCare and recently inherited $85,000. One of the first things she did was go out and get new boobs. Her drug-addicted boyfriend is working through the rest of it. I think it’s been about 6 months and I hear the money’s almost gone. I’ve reported her three times. Hope they get around to investigating her…
I am sorry to tell you that they won’t. I have a friend who works in the food stamp department of another State. The month after Obama was elected a memo was sent out to NOT Question anything on a food stamp applicants application. People driving brand new cars are getting food stamps!!!!!!!
Reporting Fraud in Maine
Allegations of fraud or attempted fraud involving funds, including Food Stamps, administered by the Department of Health and Human Services should be sent to:
Fraud, Investigation and Recovery
11 State House Station
Whitten Road
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
Phone numbers for this office are:
1-207-287-2409 and 1-800-442-6003
Further questions and suspicions can also be submitted by e-mail.
Do All three, Phone, E-mail and send a Letter.
Follow-up in 30 days with a Certified letter if no response.
Send a letter Directly to the Governor’s Office, that should get their attention.
Keep a written log of actions and attempts to notify. Hold them Responsible!
That is so untrue. Also if a vehicle is leased, it’s not considered an asset because the person does n0t own it. Check it out. You can find it at maine.gov under food stamp manual.
Are you calling me a liar?
No,I’m telling you what the policy is and where you can find it in case you don’t believe me. I worked in the Food Stamp program for 31 years!!
How do you know they didn’t and found no fraud. They certainly aren’t going to report the result of the investigation to you.
I know the state will not notify me. However, I know the situation to be true and I know her family, so I will hear about it if/when she gets in trouble. $85000 cash income and no notice to DHS, no taxes paid to the state? That’s serious stuff.
This is how it starts. A little at a time. Clean the the abuse and someday we won’t have a budget shortfall. Stealing is stealing. Wether it’s from the government or your neighbor.
Great,
Nobody likes Con Artist stealing from them!
Lets see some CEO’s Con’s names up there as well!
Six former ceo’s of Fannie mae ring a bell.
No one can find fault with these prosecutions of welfare cheaters. Care must be taken to refute the blanket indictment of the assistance program and everybody in it, that the tea bag right is sure to endorse. Response to this fraud must be measured and just to the citizens who are in the program and those who pay for it with their taxes. It is sometimes easy, in the midst of fevered rhetoric, and enthusiastic garment rending, to loose sight of the fact that all are citizens who share a common humanity.
According to Emily Cain D-Orono on the news last night there isn’t any welfare fraud in Maine. Go figure!
Emily is representative of progressive Democrats who benefit from having a large number of people on welfare.
You’ve got that right!
benefit how?
Our whole society is built around the notion that people can’t possibly take care of themselves. A dependent class of people gets Democrats elected, enlarges their power base and a dependent class even creates state jobs for them. (often union jobs) Most state workers are Democrats especially in DHHS.
Glad the clean up has started, been a long time coming. I have never seen any cashiers asking for ID when a customer has used and EBT card. Are they supposed to?? Some of these people seem quite young to be getting state help. I don’t mind helping the older folks and disabled folks BUT the younger ones GET A JOB!!
The majority of Mainers receiving food stamps are children. They are young and the majority are not old enough to “get jobs.” Also, in order for their mother to receive welfare she must participate in Aspire unless disabled or caring for a disabled child…FULL TIME. That means work, training, college or volunteer. It is mandatory.
Tell me how many of the regions 1,700 methadone addicts also receive food stamps?
Opiate addiction is considered a disability now…..That’s what I mean by disability is out of control…
So young people are immune from developing a disability?
Clerks are not required to check an ID for an EBT user. There are several reasons I can think of for keeping the status quo: (1) Such a requirement would have an overall effect of singling out EBT users for ridicule from other shoppers, (2) Not all EBT users have an ID, (3) Requiring EBT users to have an ID would end up costing the state money to fund the creation of IDs for EBT users.
I think that people choosing welfare should given choices. One of those choices should be to just go to jail. Think of it as voluntary servitude. You get three meals a day, internet, TV, gym membership but you get no pay and are required to work 40 hours a week of any of the selected services. You can leave any time you like, but it seems some of these people would be perfectly happy with someone telling them what to do 24 hours a day. Job application would read: “Works well under constant supervision.”
Enlightened fascism. Concentration camps lite. “Work will make you free.”
My hero.
EXCUSE ME FOLKS………what was the article in yesterdays paper about the MILLIONS that the legislators gave to their own or their spouses companies last year?????? and the NUTTING case that stole a million from Medicare???? That is the money we need to recoup. Looks like we’ve discovered maybe 30 THOUSAND from a few poor people that will never be able to pay it back??? I’m not saying that there isn’t welfare fraud that may need to be tightened up, I’m saying why not go after the RICH that are stealing MILLIONS and have the funds to PAY IT BACK? Leplaque is continueing to cut all the positons of the folks that can tighten up welfare fraud so eventually this won’t be happening anymore. Leplaque is hoping all of you poor people haters will vote him into office again because he’s found a few THOUSAND dollars of fraud in DHHS and you’ll forget about the MILLIONS/BILLIONS of dollars that the RICH steal every day. He has given you all a face to your hate. I work and have been fortunate enough to not ever need welfare, but I surely understand how some are born less fortunate and corporate GREED out weighs welfare fraud by BILLIONS
Well both issues go hand in hand. We cannot expect our government to be perfect when the people it represents are far from. Both sides of the spectrum get corrupt, both sides take advantage of the system, both sides screw the rest of the country.
‘Leplaque’ has done more for cleaning house then many of the previous administrations. I feel that if you make it an issue it will change and we’re doing exactly that with due diligence. However, where are the excuses as to why Baldacci or King didn’t tackle these issues earlier? Instead you flame the existing government body. What is wrong with cleaning up issues of fraud by all citizens? Is it just the government officials that need to be rained in? Not according to this article. Nor is it just those receiving welfare according to the other article.
Ever heard the adage “Life imitates art, art imitates life”? Same could be said for government: “Governments imitate citizens, citizens imitate government”.
Here’s an idea….let’s collect it ALL!!
Your idea makes too much sense….Didn’t you know it’s okay to be greedy if you already have money….8)
At least with the Lepage administration there’s a concerted effort to clean up welfare abuse. When Baldacci was governor, the effort was to sign up as many people as possible to any “entitlement” program that existed, and the mandate from DHHS was to not rock the boat by opening the can of worms that is welfare fraud. Tell the good people that welfare fraud is a minor issue and they will believe it, even if they see it all around them on a daily basis. Governor Lepage may not be polished, but he is working for the taxpayers among us, and that’s kind of refreshing coming from Augusta.
You’d get some idea of just how “refreshing” can feel if the shoe were on the other foot in this life in the roster of recipients and tax payers. You have valid concerns but yours aren’t the only ones out there. Simplistic solutions are just that.
My concern is about fraud, not welfare in general. Some people need help, and some don’t. Those that don’t and get it anyway are in effect stealing from those that do, and from the taxpayers footing the bill. Simplistic maybe , but true.
Fair enough.
Sounds to me like you are to smart to be posten on here.
No I’m at least as smart as you are.
OK, just a difference of opinion.
rotf…..
If this state has any prayer for reinventing itself, it needs to start at the bottom of the barrel and these useless freeloaders are a start. Keep going!
How about starting with the people like Nutting who have been stealing fro the state for years and got away scott free!!
Fraud is fraud…..get em all.
Subject: [bdn] Re: Five indicted in welfare fraud schemes
The funny thing is that there are people out there who could careless about these cheats… They think it is ok what they are doing.
Great, wipe all of the fraud! A few thousand more of them and they can recover the kind of MaineCare money Rep Nutting “overbilled” and spent, I wonder why he did not get jail time?
I thought there were no welfare cheats, maybe LePage is right!!!!
where are you living? “No” welfare cheats? Do you live in Disneyland?
people need to learn to read sarcasm if they are going to read these posts…lol 8)
I hope this is just the beginning of curtailing the rampant abuse of State handouts courtesy of overworked and taxed people who are still working for our Nanny State.
Maybe if they continue cracking down on these freeloaders the state won’t have to kick grammy & grampie out of the nursing homes & assisted living facilities.
Maybe I haven’t run into any reliable sources indicating that the state is attempting to deprive elderly of needed care. It all sounds like scare tactics. Don’t believe everything you hear or read.
Government sucks…
You don’t mean that welfare fraud is okay, do you?
Emily’s support for welfare Druggies/drunks, is why I want her to run for Governor of Maine.. I see nothing wrong with swapping free money for drugs.. and neither does most Maine voters… Vote Kane for Governor!!!
Cain
Go get um Paul. Let the rats sink or swim.
get the scum off the programs
Exactly why we need to drug test people on the state. I had to take a drug test to work, they need to take a drug test to get my money…just saying..
So are you going to set up shop directly in the elementary school to drug test the largest block of welfare recipients or just herd them all down to the local police station?
What I find very ironic is that NONE of these cases involve single mothers that get assistance, yet that is the group constantly accused of wrongdoing. The first case doesn’t indicate any drugs or one person paying cash for use of the card, so that one COULD be a case of the woman doing the man’s shopping for him and them being roommates. Honestly…I don’t know many 46 year old men who know how to shop for groceries properly. They’d come home with a month’s worth of TV dinners, pizzas and sardines, lol. It’s 2012 and people who date nowadays DO tend to split their expenses equally if they live together.
The other cases definitely sound like they should be prosecuted, though.
I doubt the attorney general would bother prosecuting a case where a boyfriend or some other person was merely suspected of shopping on behalf of an EBT card holder even though technically illegal. Keep in mind all five cases have been indited.
A point of interest: These arrests give an additional reason why drug testing of welfare recipients might be warranted.
You mean LePage’s attorney general? I just sort of find it a bit ironic that this story is coming so closely after LePage has been blasted to high heaven for his Mainecare fiasco AND that he’s already trying to garner support for a re-election bid. What better way to wind up his Tea dippers than indict some of those poor folks that his potential supports despise so deeply?
What Mainecare fiasco are your referring to? You’re not referring to his recent appearance at a public meeting in Fort Kent where most of the crowd there didn’t pick on any fiasco created by the governor, are you? I spoke to a liberal Democrat attendee this morning who told me that LePage’s comment, “What planet are you from?” to Ms Judy Paradis was well-warranted. According to her, the audience was mostly appreciative of the governor for showing up to answer questions. “Blasted to high heaven”, you say? Don’t believe everything you read in the newspaper or other news media.
You can be thankful we in Maine have an attorney general who doesn’t pick and chose which crime cases to prosecute, unlike US Attorney Eric Holder who is politically motivated.
I’m talking about LePage’s blatant attack on the elderly, disabled adults and disabled children who NEED services he insists on cutting in favor of big tax cuts for people who don’t need them. Did you realize he wants to cut 6000 elderly and disabled Mainers’ residential services at private facilities (where they LIVE) when there are only 400 public spots available for those 6000 people? Where would those 5600 people go? On the street for all LePage cares. THAT is the fiasco I’m speaking of.
The governor has repeated he doesn’t want to kick out elderly and disabled people from their nursing homes and other institutions or to cut out their needed assistance. This is all propaganda. I just wish people would listen better and not to people who make up this stuff.
Once again you’re getting your “news” from the wrong outlets. The governor hasn’t proposed to kick the elderly, disabled, or children off of assistance. He HAS proposed stopping aid to able bodied childless adults who should be able to care for themselves. Try to keep up.
Amen to that. I was waiting for my daughter and grandson outside their apartment today which is across the street from a “food pantry.” Out of about 15 people in line were 10 males who looked to be under 25 and able-bodied. . Perhaps they were disabled, but at least three of them were healthy enough to play grab a** while waiting. And more than half didn’t seem to have breathing problems since the smokes were aplenty. Jus’ sayin’.
I have a hard time with welfare for able bodied people – especially those without children. I have met young people who received food stamps because working at McDonald’s was beneath them! How can you respect yourself, if you are too lazy to work? I don’t mind welfare or food stamps for single-mom’s that are attending college or getting job training as this should be temporary and it is very difficult to go to school and work and raise children. Whether it is legislative grift (sweet deals for those in power) or welfare cheats both are disgusting.
Now there’s a way to cut the State budget ! Put them to work for the State instead of jail….save even more…..
Wow. Look at the ages of those charged who were given welfare by state and federal programs.This is a pathetic misuse of taxpayer money. I am sure this is only the tip of the iceberg.
Hey this is Maine. We owe all those lazy druggies a living.
I want to turn myself in for calling the state a corrupt penal colony….and a bunch of losers….should the above address be correct ?? Oh, and the governor a lard arse….
And Governor Baldacci was “follicle” challenged.
Bladacci was challenged period. The whole enterprise of government was an inept mess under his regime. From the loss of hundreds of millions of tax dollars by DHHS to the sale of the lucrative state liquor business to connected Dem insiders there was just about nothing he did that didn’t make Maine a worse place in which to live.
Back in the 1970’s there was a program called commodity food for the poor. Generic canned foods that were distributed to the needy. I think it is time we go back to food distribution of generic food stuffs and stop allowing the poor to “play store” with taxpayer money. Further, we should invest in Spartan communal housing for the poor. It is right to help the poor, but it is also right to make it distasteful to be poor, to the point it becomes a motivation to improve one’s lot in life.
So – we should bring back the poor farm, and feed the poor swill. Punish a few of them as motivation. Wow. I knew that conservatives liked to glorify the good old days, but Dickens is long gone. How about a set of stocks at Bass Park ? I know that there are a couple of witches working those slot machines across Main Street.
Views like yours are part of the problem. Extremist and unrealistic. How about trying to solve the problem instead of coddling it.
There needs to be more of this rooted out before the governor starts punishing 65,000 people for the crimes of people who rip off the system.
This is what Mr. Lepage has been trying to tell all of us. Welfare fraud is here and needs to be stopped.
It’s strange how they are all from Lewiston……hey, I know someone from there!
I must have touched a raw verve somewhere as my previous post has vanished. Here goes again. No one can find fault with theses indictments for fraud. However the tea bag right will be sure to use them as an indictment against the whole program and everybody on it. This view is a disservice to the community. The rooting out of fraud in the welfare system must be handled in a manner respectful of the rights of the people receiving aid as well as the rights of the taxpayers whose money funds the assistance program. I will again point out that no matter how distasteful to some aggrieved citizens, recipients and taxpayers are all citizens who share a common humanity.
Gee and I thought there was no welfare fraud in this state…… Not.
Where do I sign up for food stamps and all the other benefits? I’m tired of working and supporting myself and all those who refuse to work. Oh but wait, we’re both college grads, make over $100K a year between us, and our net worth including our home is well over $500K, thanks to our own hard work. Guess I have to work tomorrow to support those who won’t. Doesn’t seem fair, does it?
I think you should only be on it for a short time. You should also have to complete a work study program, learn a skilled trade, or have to volunteer 40 hours a week to pay the money back. This all should be done in a four years time like college. If you are on welfare you shouldn’t be allowed to have kids until you get off it. It is for the people that need it not all the dead beats out there that want something for nothing. I’m not against it but to many Mainers abuse it.
I see it everyday when i go to the store and see someone on welfare buying scratch off tickets, cigarettes, alcohol, etc.. If you cant afford to take care of yourself, by yourself, then you shouldnt have the privileges that hard working people have.
“If you are on welfare you shouldn’t be allowed to have kids until you get off it.”
And the penalty would be?
You lose all your benefits. If your responsible enough to have You should be responsible enough to take care of them on your own.
So now you’re going to hurt the kid?
No they are going to hurt their kid. They knew the rule and its their fault. Its not my fault they broke rules. If you steal its not my fault you go to jail.
Great to see that welfare abuse is being dealt with. As we all know it can be difficult to pin down the people who really need it and those who misuse the benefits. It makes me angry that families who really need help could be turned away because of people like this. I hope more people abusing our welfare system will be either caught or turned in and be dealt with by our penal system.
A real solution to the arguments in this forum would be to simply say there should be different guidelines and rules than what exist today. I am a woman, raised a young boy, and I have worked since I was 17- full time, served my country for 10 years as a mom, and have never been unemployed for longer than 3 months. In todays world, I am lucky. The simple truth is that in todays economy the jobs are not there in most markets and many communities and that is getting harder each day. And yes, at one point about 9 years ago, I applied at McDonalds because I was unemployed and needed and wanted ANYTHING to earn my own way. They didnt hire me. I was ‘overqualified’ and they said the ‘didnt want to do that to me.” (quotes from the person who interviewed my by the way). So yes, to the person who stated that many companies like McDonalds will only hire kids in school is absolutely on the mark.
With that said: the solution would be to take people on welfare that are not disabled, and have them work for their benefits..volunteer work..minimum of 20 hours, and the other 20 could be looking for paid work, same as unemployment. This way they could still ‘earn’ their benefits, but it would be more of a trade for service. Things like helping out at the soup kitchen, homeless shelters, parks and rec departments, cleaning up sides of roads or helping to repair the roads, grounds maintenance, etc… would provide job skills, save the towns and ultimately the state money, and the person receiving the benefit would maintain a sense of worth. There are many out there that legitimately need assistance that cant or wont apply, some because they dont know how to get the benefits and work the system, and some for pride. Unfortunately this state has made it easy for fraud and those cases tend to stand out and ruin it for everyone else. We should not judge the entitlement and the people who receive it as a whole, and when we feel the need to judge we should judge the individual case or circumstance.
LePage is kicking some @ss!!
dianna perry (bangor) is another one she is scamming big time.
Any chance we could bring down some of the multi-millionaire Wall Street folks who brought the American economy to the verge of Depression II?
I applaud all rooting-out of fraud but wish we’d focus even more on the big guys–the rewards of jailing and fining them would be tends of thousands times larger.
The state will have to give them a court appointed lawyer or maybe use there EBT card. Glad they are starting to get caught.
This is all PEANUTS and a SMOKE screen for the millions that the legislators and other politicians and CEO’s steal from US every day!!!! I would rather the try to recoup the 23 MILLION that the appropriations committee inappropriately gave to themselves and or spouses companies than spend time on 3-30 thousand in welfare fraud. What do you think is worth going after????????????(don’t get me wrong theft is theft, but I’d go for the BIG guns first!!)
This is such a feel good story. As if there is really a governing agency that monitors this. I know 50 people here in BAngor alone that are guilty of stealing from the system and us taxpayer. They milk the system for all it is worth while they have had job offers, could get a job, or have personal wealth tucked away but continue to steal from the states welfare system. If these 4 slobs are guilty and someone is goiing to start cracking down on welfare fraud, we had better start building bigger jails. MUCH BIGGER. MAybe some of these unemployed bums can get helping to build their next home.
enforceing drug testing on all Recipient’s should have been approved.