In Butler County, Ohio, a local business is at the center of a Food Stamp scandal. Seven people have been named in a federal complaint, accused of using U.S. Beef in Fairfield to illegally transmit Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cards in exchange for cash and drugs.
14 arrest warrants have been issued for people involved in this conspiracy to defraud the United States, wire fraud, theft of public monies, illegal use of Food Stamps, money laundering, and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances–according to U.S. Attorney Carter Stewart.
Suspected fraudulent transactions were completed for a total of $1.1 million.
Investigators say the scheme involved purchasing food stamps at fifty cents on the dollar, then turning around and cashing them in for 100% reimbursement from the government.
The so-called “ringleader”, Torrens, reported to FOX19 NOW that he cleared nearly $10,000 each week with what he called Las-Vegas style spending habits. One of his homes was being rented for almost $4,000 a month; he had a Corvette, Hummer, and Escalade, among other vehicles (which were eventually seized.)
Of the 14 warrants issued, investigators say they have 13 of those in custody.