In Georgia, it is a crime to make a false statement, fail to disclose information, impersonate another, or engage in other fraudulent activities in obtaining public assistance such as food stamps and Medicaid.

This crime can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the total amount of the value of the public assistance. If the amount of food stamps or public assistance is less than $1,500, then it will be charged as a misdemeanor. In Georgia, the maximum penalty for misdemeanors is 12 months in custody and a $1000 fine. If the value of public assistance exceeds $1500, it will be treated as a felony. Under Georgia law, individuals convicted of felony fraud in obtaining food stamps or Medicaid face a one to five-year imprisonment.

The statute lays out several different examples of fraudulent activity that can fall under this statute:

(1) Knowingly using, altering, or transferring food stamp coupons to purchase food stamp coupons in any manner not authorized by law;

(2) Knowingly possessing food stamp coupons or authorizations to purchase food stamp coupons when he or she is not authorized by law to possess them;

(3) Knowingly possessing or redeeming food stamp coupons or benefits when he or she is not authorized by law to possess or redeem them; or

(4) Knowingly using food stamp coupons or benefits in any manner or for purposes not authorized by law.

Apart from being susceptible to arrest under this statute, the legislation mandates that the individual is also obligated to reimburse the state.

If you have been charged with Food Stamp Fraud in Fulton County, your first court date will be known as your First Appearance Hearing. This hearing will occur shortly after your arrest and will apprise you of your charges and evaluate the case for bond. Following this hearing, the case will be accused or indicted by the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office and assigned a Judge. The address to the Fulton County Courthouse is 136 Pryor St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303.

If you or a loved one has been charged with Fraud in Obtaining Public Assistance, Food Stamps, or Medicaid in Fulton County or in Georgia, call the criminal defense lawyers at Law office of W. Scott Smith for a FREE CONSULTATION at 404-581-0999.