In a shocking revelation, disabled victim Brian Foster discovered his Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card drained of its monthly benefits, leaving him with a mere $12. Foster, a survivor of gun violence, relies on these benefits for survival after being rendered unable to work. What initially seemed like an isolated incident turned into a widespread problem affecting hundreds of individuals in Monroe County, New York. The scam involved unauthorized transactions, leaving victims like Foster embarrassed and struggling to make ends meet.
Photo from: Bloomberg.com
Systemic Fraud Unveiled
After reporting the incident, Foster learned he wasn’t alone. The Department of Human Services revealed over 700 cases of EBT skimming, affecting clients across Western New York. Monroe County Executive Adam Bello declared unlimited overtime for staff to tackle the escalating issue.
Angel Martinez and William Perez, among the many victims, shared their harrowing experiences. Martinez, a disability beneficiary, had over $400 stolen, impacting his ability to support himself and his children. Perez’s balance plummeted from $291 to just a penny within hours, highlighting the speed and severity of the fraudulent activities.
Foster’s embarrassment at the grocery store reflects the shared frustration among victims. The affected individuals not only face financial strain but also endure public scrutiny and inconvenience, with items having to be returned due to insufficient funds.
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Call for Increased Security Measures
In response to the widespread scam, victims like Foster filed police reports. The Department of Human Services initiated an urgent investigation, completing 300 cases and issuing replacement benefits. Law enforcement agencies are working to uncover the perpetrators behind the large-scale EBT skimming.
As victims demand answers, there’s a growing call for enhanced security measures within the EBT system. Monroe County officials, along with affected individuals, are urging authorities to bolster safeguards to prevent future breaches and protect vulnerable beneficiaries.
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