Ulster County’s Zero Tolerance Program  

Kingston, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces that an arrest was made yesterday under the County’s “Zero Tolerance” Anti-Fraud, Waste and Abuse Program.  

Jessica Cesana of Port Ewen was arrested by the Ulster County Sheriff's Department and charged with Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree, a class D felony, and Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, a class E felony.  An investigation conducted by Ulster County Department of Social Services Special Investigations Unit (SIU), in conjunction with the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office discovered that the Ms. Cesana had filed certification with the Department of Social Services indicating that she did not have income, when in fact she was gainfully employed. As a result, she received $9,970.00 in Temporary Assistance and Food Stamp benefits to which she was not entitled.  Ms. Cesana was arraigned in Town of Esopus Court and released to reappear at a later date.

“Every stolen taxpayer dollar is money that cannot go to help someone truly in need and the County’s Zero Tolerance Program is helping to stop Welfare waste, fraud and abuse and saving taxpayer dollars,” said County Executive Mike Hein.  “I appreciate the efforts of The Ulster County Department of Social Services Investigative Unit working in conjunction with the Office of the Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright, and the Ulster County Sheriff’s Department as they continue to hold those who are taking advantage of the Welfare system accountable.”

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.