Jackson Woman Sentenced in Federal Court for SNAP Benefits Fraud

Hattiesburg, MS – A Jackson woman was sentenced last week in federal court to five years’ probation for stealing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits intended for low-income families to supplement their grocery budget so they can afford nutritious food.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Nya Irving, also known as Nya Carter, 25, unlawfully acquired and used SNAP and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits in October and November 2023. Irving was a Customer Service Representative for Conduent from September 26, 2022, to November 20, 2023.Irving used her position to access and obtain SNAP and TANF benefits belonging to recipients throughout the United States, including Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, New York, and Tennessee without authorization.

Irving also provided EBT card data to her friend, Velton Taylor Williams, Jr., who was sentenced in September to five years’ probation for his role in the scheme. Irving and Williams used the stolen SNAP and TANF benefits for their personal gain. Irving obtained $41,587.87 in SNAP and $975.19 in TANF benefits without authorization. TANF benefits are intended for low-income families with children under the age of 18. Williams and Irving were both ordered to pay restitution. 

United States Attorney Baxter Kruger of the Southern District of Mississippi and acting Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Wilkins of the United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General made the announcement.

The United States Department of Agriculture Office of the Inspector General investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie prosecuted the case.