Former Social Services Employee Charged with Fraud in Brookings, South Dakota

Brookings, SD — Attorney General Marty Jackley announced charges against a former Department of Social Services employee accused of misusing grocery vouchers intended to assist families in need.

The 28-year-old defendant, whose name has not been released, allegedly exploited her position within the department to obtain personal benefits, violating public trust. Jackley stated the charges stem from an incident on October 11, with the defendant now facing a misdemeanor count of obtaining assistance by fraud. The employee has since resigned.

This case marks the latest in a series of fraud investigations targeting former state employees. Jackley has previously prosecuted cases involving individuals accused of creating fraudulent vehicle titles to secure bank loans.

The addition of this new case brings the total number of fraud charges against former state workers to five under his leadership.

Jackley emphasized the need for stronger whistleblower protections to encourage accountability and transparency within state agencies. He is urging lawmakers to modernize protections for employees who report misconduct.

In response to ongoing concerns about ethics and public trust, Governor Kristi Noem recently issued an executive order requiring ethics training for all state employees.

The initiative aims to prevent future abuses of power and strengthen integrity in government operations.

This wave of enforcement actions signals a broader effort by the attorney general’s office to combat fraud and safeguard resources meant for vulnerable communities.

 

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