Hattiesburg Man Sentenced in Federal Court for SNAP Benefits Fraud

Hattiesburg, MS - A Hattiesburg man was sentenced Thursday in federal court to five years' probation for stealing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits intended for low-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford nutritious food.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Velton Taylor Williams, Jr., 31, of Hattiesburg unlawfully acquired and used SNAP benefits in November 2023. Williams admitted to selling the benefits to others and using them for himself. SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a federally funded, national benefit program to help qualifying low- and middle-income families buy food, thus reducing hunger. Williams also admitted to using TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) cash benefits intended for low-income families with children under the age of 18.

Williams was sentenced to five years' probation and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $38,963.14.

Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and acting Special Agent-in-Charge is Matthew Deuchler of United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General made the announcement.

The United States Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie is prosecuting the case.