Mesa County secures nearly $60,000 in restitution in public assistance fraud case

A public assistance fraud case investigated by Mesa County Department of Human Services (MCDHS) and referred to the District Attorney’s Office has concluded with guilty pleas and a significant restitution order.

The case involved a married couple who failed to report income while receiving assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Colorado Works over several years. When the violations were initially identified in 2021, Mesa County addressed the matter through an administrative hearing.

The individuals were found to have knowingly withheld income, resulting in approximately $20,000 in overpayments. The couple agreed to repay the funds but stopped making payments after only two installments.

Subsequent investigation revealed additional violations. Despite having already been penalized, the individuals continued to withhold income during later eligibility redeterminations while also receiving Child Care Assistance benefits. Based on this pattern of conduct, the case was referred for criminal prosecution in June 2024.

The District Attorney’s Office filed charges, citing consistent fraudulent behavior spanning from 2016 to 2023. The defendants ultimately pled guilty to a Class 6 felony for forgery, received a twelve-month disqualification from the assistance programs and proceeded to a restitution hearing to determine final repayment amounts.

The judge ruled in favor of Mesa County, ordering nearly $60,000 in restitution across SNAP, Colorado Works, and Child Care Assistance programs. The restitution will accrue interest, which will be retained by the County.

Mesa County remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of public assistance programs and holding individuals accountable for fraudulent activity.

To learn more about fraud investigation in Mesa County, please visit us online.