Cape Girardeau County Man Charged in Federal Indictment Involving Food Stamp Fraud

Cape Girardeau, MO – The co-owner of B & H Convenience store was indicted on charges alleging the misuse of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program. The indictment alleges that between January 2010 and March 2014, PATRICK BUCK illegally redeemed approximately $800,000 in SNAP benefits.

According to the indictment, the Missouri Department of Social Services, Family Support Division (FSD) issues Electronic Benefits Transfer Cards (EBT) for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), more commonly known as food stamps. Authorized grocery retailers can only accept and redeem SNAP benefits for the sale of eligible food items. They are not permitted to exchange or redeem SNAP benefits for cash or other ineligible items, such as household goods, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, cellular telephones or other non-food items.

Patrick Buck, Cape Girardeau, MO, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Cape Girardeau on five felony counts of unauthorized use of SNAP benefits. The indictment alleges that Buck paid cash for SNAP benefits. Buck also exchanged SNAP benefits for tobacco products.

If convicted, each count of the indictment carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

This case was investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General-Investigations and Sikeston Department of Public Safety. Assistant United States Attorney Anthony L. Franks is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.