(WNY News Now) – An investigation into alleged welfare fraud has led to the arrest of a Machias resident, accused of unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits by concealing income.
Olean, N.Y. – The Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Bureau has arrested 41-year-old Christine M. Villani of Machias, NY, on charges stemming from alleged welfare fraud. Following a complaint lodged by the Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services in May 2023, authorities began investigating Villani’s SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) account.
The investigation revealed that Villani allegedly received $3,392.00 in benefits by withholding income details, leading to charges of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (D Felony), Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree (D Felony), and Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree (E Felony). The Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services Program Integrity Unit assisted with the inquiry, which culminated in a warrant issued for Villani’s arrest on October 1, 2024.
Villani was taken into custody without incident at the Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services in Olean, NY, at 11:30 a.m. on October 23, 2024. After processing, she was released with an appearance ticket. She is scheduled to appear in the City of Olean Court on October 29, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., where she will face charges before Judge DiCerbo. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.