Martin Man Pleads Guilty To Benefits Fraud

United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Walter York, age 34, of Martin, South Dakota, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 14, 2013, and pled guilty to Benefits Fraud.     The maximum penalty upon conviction is 1 year imprisonment and a $100,000 fine.
         
York was indicted for fraudulently making a purchase at Sam’s Club in Rapid City on July 10, 2011, when he used another person’s Electronic Benefits Transfer card.
         
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the South Dakota Department of Social Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen.
         
A presentence investigation was ordered and a sentencing date was set for February 3, 2014.  The defendant was released on bond pending sentencing.