Chemung County Commissioner of Human Services Jennifer Stimson and Deputy County Executive Mike Krusen announced the results of the work of the Welfare Fraud Unit at the Department of Social Services, on Wednesday.

Two part-time fraud investigators were added to its Special Investigations Unit, in April of 2016.

“These officers have ensured that the tax dollars are available for use by those in our County that truly need our support. For that, we are extremely thankful,” says Jennifer Stimson.

The Special Investigations Unit is comprised of both County and Elmira Police Department personnel. Chemung County said this relationship has led to countless arrests and greater cost savings to the county.

The Special Investigations Unit is responsible for receiving referrals and/or complaints of benefit fraud and investigating every referral. Types of benefits include Temporary Assistance, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Medical Assistance and Day Care.

For the period from 2013-2017, the average cost saving per calendar year is $4.2 million, according to the County.