MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — A Berkeley County woman has been arrested and charged with fraudulently receiving more than $24,000 in food assistance benefits, according to the South Carolina Department of Social Services.
Special agents with the South Carolina Department of Social Services Office of Inspector General arrested Latrelle Shequila Whitley, 35, of Goose Creek on Thursday following an investigation into the improper receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits.
Investigators allege Whitley fraudulently obtained $24,507 in food stamp benefits, leading to a charge of fraudulent acquisition or use of food stamps greater than $10,000.
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Whitley was booked into the Berkeley County Detention Center, authorities said. The case will be prosecuted by the Ninth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
The Department of Social Services says the arrest is part of ongoing efforts by its Office of Inspector General to combat fraud, waste, abuse and misconduct in programs administered by the agency.
Officials encourage the public to report suspected benefit fraud through the Department of Social Services Office of Inspector General, either online or by calling 1-800-616-1309.
