By Bob Katzen
State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s effort to help make government work better by investigating, fraud, abuse and illegal acts involving public assistance benefits across the state uncovered more than $2.5 million in fraudulent spending. Her office investigated a total of 814 cases and found overpayment in 207 cases with identified fraud.
The cases include funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program $1,528,615; Medicaid $568,517; Department of Early Education and Care $307,324; Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children $112,787; Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children $28,392; and Personal Care Attendant $3,719.
“For many residents across the commonwealth, public benefit programs provide access to everyday essential items, such as food and medical supplies,” said DiZoglio. “Through the efforts of our fraud examiners, we continue to help ensure public benefit programs operate with transparency, accountability and equity. Our office will continue to work to ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively and that resources are available to those who truly need and qualify for them.”