“Zero Tolerance”

Kingston, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces that arrests were made yesterday under the County’s “Zero Tolerance” Anti-Fraud, Waste and Abuse Program.  Jeffrey DiMarco and Carmen DiMarco of New Paltz were arrested by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Department and charged with Felony Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree and five counts of Felony 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 and the Town of New Paltz , concluded that the DiMarcos failed to disclose employment income to the Department of Social Services over a four year period.  The DiMarcos filed 5 false applications/recertifications for assistance during the period of 2010-2014.  Due to the undisclosed income, the DiMarcos fraudulently received $43,896 in Temporary Assistance, SNAP and Medicaid benefits.   Both subjects were arraigned in the Town of Ulster Justice Court and released on their own recognizance to reappear at a later date.

 “It is critical that Welfare benefits are made available to those individuals who truly need assistance,” said County Executive Hein.  “SIU, the Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office are helping make sure that people who steal from the system are brought to justice, protecting Ulster County taxpayers as well as the limited pool of resources available to help those in need.”

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