A Lenoir County Social Services Employee has admitted to a shocking scheme that has left taxpayers reeling. Deshaune White, a 24-year-old resident of Wayne County, pleaded guilty to Theft of Government Property for stealing over $100,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Between June 2022 and January 2024, White, using his position as a North Carolina Department of Social Services case worker, unlawfully accessed the SNAP accounts of qualified individuals and stole $102,000 in government funds for his own personal use.
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle expressed outrage over the incident, stating, ‘What a shocking abuse of trust for a state employee to steal taxpayer money from hurting families. No longer will we tolerate the petty misery of the destruction of society and order by vicious selfishness. It is that much worse when it’s an inside job. Cheaters. Never. Win.’
White faces a maximum term of ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a Forfeiture Money Judgment of $102,000.00 when sentenced later this year.
The investigation into the case was led by the United States Department of Agriculture – OIG, and the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Ethan Ontjes prosecuting the case.
White’s actions are a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in public office. The people of North Carolina demand better, and it’s up to those in power to ensure that their trust is not betrayed.
Deshaune White, Defendant
Crime: Theft of Government Property
City and State: Wilmington, North Carolina
Date: Ongoing (crime occurred between June 2022 and January 2024)
Sentence or Outcome: Pleaded guilty, faces up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a Forfeiture Money Judgment of $102,000.00
Dollar Amounts: $102,000 stolen in SNAP benefits
Related Federal Cases
- Kenitra Michelle Gilmer, Theft of Government Property, Florida 2012 · Florida
- Simon Robert Barron, Pharmacy Burglary and Theft of Government Property, Texas 2013 · Oklahoma
- Camille M. Harris, Property Fraud Scheme, North Carolina, 2023 · North Carolina
- Emily Thompson, Theft of Property, New York NY, 2023 · New York
- Farida Yusufi, Fraudulent Use of Security Clearances and Theft of Government Records, Texas 2013 · Oklahoma
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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