After an investigation into a complaint from the Cattaraugus
County Department of Social Services of suspected welfare fraud, Robert J.
Washington, 38 of Olean, was arrested and charged with five counts of Offering
a False Instrument for Filing in the 1st Degree (E Felony). The arrest was the
result of the suspect submitting SNAP, Public Assistance and HEAP applications
to the Department of Social Services which allegedly contained false information.
He turned himself in at the Department of Social Services and was released to
appear on February 20, 2018 at 9 a.m. at the Olean City Court.
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Saturday, January 20, 2018
Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Blotter
After an investigation into a complaint from the Cattaraugus
County Department of Social Services of suspected welfare fraud, Helen M.
Washington, 74 of Olean, was arrested and charged with four counts of Offering
a False Instrument for Filing in the 1st
Degree (E Felony), Grand Larceny in the 4th Degree (E Felony), Welfare
Fraud in the 4th Degree (E Felony) and Making a Punishable False Written
Statement (A Misdemeanor). The arrest was the result of the suspect submitting
SNAP and HEAP applications to the Department of Social Services which allegedly
contained false information, resulting in the defendant fraudulently receiving
$2,903 in SNAP benefits. During the course of the investigation, deputies said
Washington also gave a written statement under penalty of perjury that contained
false information. She turned herself in at the Department of Social Services and
was released to appear on February 20, 2018 at 9 a.m. at the Olean City Court.