Dutchess Woman Charged With Welfare Fraud

A 46-year-old woman was busted for welfare fraud following an investigation by the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office and the Department Of Community and Family Services.

A Hyde Park woman was arrested for allegedly illegally obtaining SNAP benefits.
Photo Credit: *File*

Kathy Reakes

09/27/2019 2:00 p.m.

Michelle Walcott, of Hyde Park, was arrested on Friday, Sept. 27, and charged with felony welfare fraud, said Dutchess County Sheriff's Office Capt. John Watterson.

According to Watterson, the investigation found Walcott allegedly received $21,058 in SNAP benefits between January 2011 and December 2016 by concealing the fact that she co-owned property while reporting that she was paying rent.

Walcott was released following arraignment. She is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 15

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