Ulster County’s “Zero Tolerance” Continues to Yield Results

Kingston, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces an arrest was made on Tuesday under the County’s “Zero Tolerance” Anti-Fraud, Waste and Abuse Program.  Tony Wallace of Ellenville was arrested by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Department and charged with Welfare Fraud in the Second Degree and two counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, all felonies. An investigation conducted by the Ulster County Department of Social Services Special Investigations Unit (SIU), in conjunction with the Office of Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright, concluded that Mr. Wallace had failed to disclose employment over a two year period.  As a result, he received more than $60,000.00 in Temporary Assistance, SNAP and Medicaid benefits to which he was not entitled.  Wallace was released on his own recognizance to appear in the in the Town of Ulster Court on October 14, 2014.

“Zero tolerance continues to be the policy in UlsterCounty” said County Executive Hein.  “It is important and necessary to combat Welfare fraud and abuse to make sure that the individuals needing assistance have the benefits available to them.  I appreciate the diligent work of SIU, the Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office.”

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.