4 In Montco Charged With Welfare Fraud

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — Four Montgomery County residents are facing welfare fraud charges, according to a release from the State Inspector General's Office. They're among 45 people across Pennsylvania facing the charges which were brought forward in 2019.

Sharina Eaddy, of Elkins Park, Deborah Bier, of Conshohocken, Anelina Atkins, of Elkins Park and Natasha Boyd, of Norristown, are the Montgomery County residents facing charges. They owe a total of over $21,000, the release says.

They're accused of defrauding funds for medical assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Of the 45 charged, 10 face misdemeanor charges of defrauding public benefits and the rest face third-degree felonies.

In total, the 45 charged owe $240,125.40 in restitution to the Commonwealth, according to the release.

Those charged with felony fraud in Montgomery County are:

• Sharina Eaddy, of Elkins Park in Montgomery County, for $7,238.78 in Medical Assistance fraud and $1,457.00 in SNAP fraud.
• Deborah Bier, of Conshohocken in Montgomery County, for $6,675.00 in SNAP fraud.
• Anelina Atkins, of Elkins Park in Montgomery County, for $3,030.00 in SNAP fraud.
• Natasha Boyd, of Norristown in Montgomery County, for $1,950.00 in SNAP fraud and $762.00 for LIHEAP fraud.

If convicted, they face up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.

"Ensuring the integrity of public assistance programs is crucial in our service to the citizens of Pennsylvania," said Lucas M. Miller, the Acting State Inspector General. "We hold accountable those who willfully defraud these programs while safeguarding assistance for those who are in need."

Anybody who suspects another of welfare fraud is encouraged to visit the OSIG website or to call the Welfare Fraud Tipline at 800-932-0582.