“Zero Tolerance”

Kingston, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces that an arrest was made last week under the County’s “Zero Tolerance” Program.  

“It is important to remain vigilant in protecting the benefits available for those who truly need them,” said County Executive Mike Hein.  “Under the County’s `Zero Tolerance´ Program, our Special Investigations Unit, the Offices of Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright and Ulster County Sheriff Paul Van Blarcum continue to work together to do just that and make sure those who abuse the system are brought to justice.  Please report any suspicions of fraud or abuse to the Special Investigations Unit by contacting the hotline at 1-855-SIU-Tips.”

Vanessa Bobo of Saugerties was arrested on October 26, 2017 by the Ulster County Sheriff's Department and charged with the felonies of Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree and four counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree. An investigation conducted by the Ulster County Department of Social Services Special Investigations Unit (SIU), in conjunction with the Office of the Ulster County District Attorney discovered that Ms. Bobo failed to accurately report earned income from March 2017 through October 2017.  This resulted in Ms. Bobo receiving $3,134.00 in SNAP benefits to which she was not entitled.  Ms. Bobo was processed and released to reappear in Ulster Town Court at a future date. 

All reports of suspected fraud will be investigated.  To contact Ulster County’s dedicated Welfare anti-fraud and abuse hotline, please call 1-855-SIU-TIPS or 1-855-748-8477.