TRENTON, NJ — Twenty people are facing charges following a months-long investigation after state prosecutors said they stole a combined $1.1 million from New Jersey’s unemployment insurance fund.
In announcing the charges Tuesday, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin said the defendants allegedly collected state and federal unemployment benefits they were not entitled to over a two-month period.
Those charged allegedly stole anywhere from $13,000 to nearly $100,000, Platkin said, adding that in some cases, the benefits were collected using someone else’s name.
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“Unemployment insurance fraud directly affects taxpayers in New Jersey, as well as those who rely on this program during times of need,” Platkin said in a statement. “We are dedicated to protecting these programs from fraud, ensuring that they remain available to those who truly need it.”
Of those charged, three are facing second-degree theft by deception. The remaining 17 defendants were charged with third-degree theft by deception, and two face additional charges for third-degree identity theft or third-degree tampering with public records.
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The defendants live in 10 counties statewide, prosecutors said. Authorities did not release the names of those charged or provide details on how they were caught.
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If convicted of a third-degree offense, the defendants could each face up to five years in prison and a $15,000 fine. Those convicted of a second-degree offense could spend 10 years in prison and be required to pay a $150,000 fine.
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