State and local prosecutors have charged seven individuals in connection with a fraudulent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) trafficking scheme. The operation allegedly siphoned off approximately $775,677.77 through fraudulent transactions at the Quick Stop Convenience Store in Steelton over a period of three years. This development follows an extensive investigation led by the Office of State Inspector General and the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office.
The investigation revealed that the store’s owner, Solanyi Ramos, continued to accept SNAP benefits despite being permanently barred from participation in the program. Prosecutors allege that the scheme involved trading SNAP benefits for cash and items not permitted under the program, effectively allowing the store to profit without providing necessary food items to recipients. For instance, in a typical transaction, a customer could charge $200 in SNAP benefits but receive only $100 in cash, while the store would still be reimbursed the full amount from public funds.
The individuals charged include store employees Rafael Jermaine Powell, Wilson Javier Garcia Matteo, and Beatriz Rosario Acosta, as well as three SNAP recipients: Shawn Van-Jeffrey McCoy, Dorothy A. Wilson, and Shariah Denise Kiser. If found guilty, the defendants may be required to pay restitution to reimburse taxpayers for the misappropriated funds.
Michelle A. Henry, Pennsylvania’s Inspector General, emphasized that this case highlights a committed effort to safeguard programs designed to assist vulnerable populations. She noted that the alleged actions not only exploited taxpayers but also diverted essential benefits away from those in genuine need.
The Dauphin County District Attorney, Fran Chardo, pointed out that SNAP trafficking schemes undermine community trust in assistance programs meant to provide nutrition to families facing financial difficulties.
The investigation was bolstered by close cooperation among multiple agencies, including the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. Leading the inquiry were Special Agent Erin DiOrazio from the Office of State Inspector General and Detective Roxanne Snider from the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Criminal Investigation Division. Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Colonel Christopher Paris noted that advanced investigative techniques were essential to uncovering the fraudulent activities.
Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Dr. Val Arkoosh, reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring that SNAP benefits are directed to those who truly need assistance.
Arrest warrants have been issued for all seven defendants, and the investigation remains ongoing. All individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
