Broward County, Fla. — A South Florida woman is facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say she orchestrated a scheme to steal food assistance benefits from nearly 200 people, many of them vulnerable residents relying on government aid.
According to nbcmiami.com, the 43-year-old Tamica Brown is accused of illegally obtaining Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card information — including account numbers and personal identification numbers — and using that data to access victims’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds.
Officials estimate the total losses exceed $120,000, with the alleged thefts occurring over a period of several months. Authorities say the suspect used the stolen benefits to purchase retail items, including energy drinks, which were then resold for cash.
Law enforcement reports indicate the victims ranged widely in age and circumstance, including a single mother and an elderly woman in her 90s. Many were unaware their benefits had been drained until they attempted to make purchases and found their accounts empty.
Investigators believe the scheme involved sophisticated methods of obtaining card data, potentially including skimming devices or unauthorized access to account information. The case highlights growing concerns about fraud targeting public assistance programs, particularly as digital payment systems become more widespread.
The suspect was taken into custody and is now facing charges that include organized fraud, identity theft, and unlawful use of access devices. Authorities say additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Officials are urging SNAP recipients to regularly monitor their account balances, protect their PINs, and report any suspicious activity immediately.
“This type of crime directly impacts families who depend on these benefits to put food on the table,” one investigator said. “We encourage anyone who believes they may be a victim to come forward.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional victims or accomplices.
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