MEMPHIS, TN – Guy Randal Stockard, 59, known locally as “Randy,” is facing federal charges after allegedly running a massive food stamp fraud scheme through his Memphis meat market, Southern Meat Market. A federal grand jury indicted Stockard on January 11, 2018, accusing him of defrauding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) out of at least $1.2 million.
According to the indictment, Stockard’s scheme spanned from January 2015 through April 2017. Southern Meat Market, authorized to accept SNAP benefits via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, became a hub for illegal activity. Instead of providing food in exchange for benefits, Stockard allegedly bought customers’ SNAP benefits at a steep discount, then redeemed those same benefits with the government at their full face value – a classic “skim” operation.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office, led by D. Michael Dunavant, alleges Stockard pocketed the difference, effectively stealing from a program designed to feed the needy. The indictment details one count of conspiracy to commit SNAP benefit fraud and theft of government property, one count of SNAP benefit fraud itself, and one count of theft of government property. This isn’t a case of simple bookkeeping errors; it’s a calculated effort to line his pockets at the expense of vulnerable citizens.
If convicted on all counts, Stockard faces a hefty penalty: a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Prosecutors are also seeking criminal forfeiture – meaning the government intends to seize any assets obtained through the alleged fraudulent activity. The Department of Justice, Western District of Tennessee, is handling the prosecution with Assistant U.S. Attorney Murre Foster leading the charge.
The investigation, a joint effort between the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Secret Service, highlights the agency’s ongoing commitment to combatting fraud within federal assistance programs. While the Secret Service is often associated with protecting dignitaries, they also play a crucial role in investigating financial crimes that impact taxpayers. This case underscores that no one is above the law, regardless of their position or the nature of their fraud.
It’s important to remember that these are merely allegations at this point. Stockard is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the evidence presented to the grand jury suggests a deliberate and extensive scheme. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments as they unfold. The next court date has not yet been announced.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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