Home / Crime and Justice / SNAP Benefits Vanish: $2,800 Stolen in Brazen EBT Fraud
SNAP Benefits Vanish: $2,800 Stolen in Brazen EBT Fraud
16 Jun
Summary
- Over $2,800 in SNAP benefits were fraudulently spent in Maryland.
- The victim's EBT card was in his possession during the theft.
- Stolen benefits may not be automatically restored by the state.
A South Florida resident, Haresh Pahilwani, experienced a distressing incident when his EBT card was declined, leading to the discovery that over $2,800 in SNAP benefits had been stolen. The fraudulent transactions occurred on May 31, with funds being spent at Target stores and supermarkets in Maryland, hundreds of miles from his home.
Pahilwani reported that he was in possession of his EBT card and working as an Uber driver in Florida when the unauthorized purchases took place. He contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families, which administers SNAP benefits, to report the theft. While his card was canceled and replaced, the restoration of the stolen benefits is not guaranteed.
Jocelyn Armand, an attorney with Legal Services of Greater Miami, noted that such cases are becoming increasingly common due to criminals using skimming devices to clone EBT cards. While SNAP benefits are federally funded, state policies largely dictate reimbursement for stolen funds, and there isn't a dedicated state fund for such losses. Armand advised EBT cardholders to utilize available security features, such as blocking out-of-state transactions, which Pahilwani has since implemented.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, overseeing the SNAP program, acknowledged the ongoing issue of EBT card fraud and stated they are advocating for enhanced security measures. Pahilwani continues to seek answers and hopes to recover the misappropriated grocery funds.
