Ulster County’s “Zero Tolerance” Program

Kingston, N.Y. – Ulster County Executive Mike Hein announces that an arrest was made yesterday under the County’s “Zero Tolerance” Anti-Fraud, Waste and Abuse Program.  

Christopher Geouge of Wallkill was arrested by the Ulster County Sheriff’s Department and charged with one count of Welfare Fraud in the Third Degree, a class D felony, and one count of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, a class E felony.  An investigation conducted by the Ulster County Department of Social Services Special Investigations Unit (SIU), in conjunction with the Office of Ulster County District Attorney’s Office, discovered that Mr. Geouge failed to report employment information over a nine month period. As a result, he received more than $15,600.00 in Medicaid, Temporary Assistance and SNAP benefits, to which he was not entitled. Mr. Geouge was issued an appearance ticked and released on his own recognizance to appear at Town of Ulster Court at a later date.

“Ulster County’s Zero Tolerance Program continues to deliver results, saving taxpayers money while protecting the limited pool of resources for residents who truly need them,” said County Executive Mike Hein.  “I commend the diligent work of our Social Services Department, SIU, the Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office in making sure that those who abuse Welfare benefits are brought to justice.”

All reports of suspected fraud will be investigated.  To contact Ulster County’s dedicated Welfare anti-fraud and abuse hotline, please call 1-855-SIU-TIPS or 1-855-748-8477.