On May 1, 2018, Love Lynetta Frazier admitted to receiving overpayments from Georgia subsidy and welfare programs.  Ms. Frazier, 37 of Conyers, Georgia, acknowledged receipt of overpayments in the amount of $28,244 for her participation in the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning’s (DECAL) Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program, and $5,875 for her participation in the Georgia Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).  Ms. Frazier agreed to repay the State of Georgia the total amount of $34,119 and agreed to mandatory disqualification from DHS’s welfare programs.

“We hope this sends a strong warning to anyone who might consider taking advantage of the CAPS Program or any other subsidy program through fraud or deception,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs.  “The CAPS Program represents an annual investment in Georgia of over $200-million to assist thousands of low-income families with the cost of child care so they can work or attend school.  It is our responsibility to be good stewards of these resources.  The proficiency of our audit staff combined with advancements in technology help enhance our fraud detection efforts.”

More than 750,000 Georgia households receive SNAP benefits that total $2.5 billion in benefits.

“People across Georgia depend on SNAP to supplement their grocery budget, so it’s vital to be diligent in stopping anyone from pocketing overpayments they are not entitled to,” said Jon Anderson, the Division of Family and Children Services’ Chief Deputy Director for the Office of Family Independence.

The case was referred by DECAL to the State of Georgia Office of Inspector General (GA OIG) for investigation. The investigation centered around fraudulent paystubs submitted to DECAL and DHS which understated Ms. Frazier’s income, entitling her to more aid than she was eligible to receive.

The case was investigated by GA OIG Investigator Misti Williams.  Newton County Assistant District Attorney Binford Bramblett was assigned the case on behalf of the State of Georgia.