A partnership forged less than a year ago between the state’s Department of Labor and Division of Criminal Justice has resulted in more than 50 arrests related to unemployment insurance fraud, officials announced.
Those arrested under the so-called “Chasing Cheaters” campaign are alleged to have illegally collected more than $2 million in unemployment benefits.
Some have been charged with identity theft for using a social security number not assigned to them to collect benefits.
Labor Commissioner Sharon Palmer said in a statement that those arrested were given a chance make repayment plans.
“Despite repeated requests for repayment and options to set up reasonable payment plans, these individuals refused to make restitution for what amounts to theft,” Palmer said.
Regulators said their efforts have recouped $415,000 so far, which has been returned to the state’s unemployment trust fund. Officials expect further repayments under court-ordered restitution.
