Federal authorities arrested four Rockford residents Thursday on charges of food stamp and wire fraud.
The Register-Star reports the group consists of Vansy Xayvandy and and Aung Gyaw of PB Discount, Som Xayvandy of Mr. Clark Groceries, and Feuy Khaikham of S&B Discount. Federal officials say they overcharged SNAP beneficiaries electronic cards, and then paid out a lesser amount in cash to these individuals.
Each individual pleaded not guilty and was released on bond. However, each count of wire fraud could carry a 20 year prison sentence and fines of up to $250,000. Each food stamp for cash charge could result in 5 years of jail time and a $20,000 fine.
Federal Treasury and Agriculture officials raided these businesses earlier in the week.