The Office of the District Attorneys Public Assistance Fraud Unit works in conjunction with the Countys Social Services Agency. The District Attorney investigates and prosecutes those who commit various forms of public assistance fraud. Public Assistance fraud creates a burden for taxpayers by increasing the cost of assistance programs such as welfare. By reducing public assistance fraud, the Unit helps to ensure that funds are available to those who really need assistance.
Those who violate the Welfare and Institutions Code by willfully and knowingly obtaining assistance funds or services they are not entitled to, for himself or herself or for a child, are subject to imprisonment and/or fines. Welfare recipients are committing fraud if they:
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Falsely report that a parent is absent from the household;
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Intentionally fail to report a change in the household composition, income or resources that would affect their eligibility for benefits;
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Intentionally fail to report any change in circumstances that would affect their eligibility for benefits; or
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Intentionally receive benefits from two or more counties or states at the same time or under more than one name.
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Fail to report felony narcotics convictions incurred within 5 years.
In addition to Welfare and Institutions Code violations, the Unit also investigates and prosecutes perjury charges related to fraudulently obtaining assistance funds or services.
