Federal officials have revealed details of an alleged long-running fraud scheme that unfolded inside California’s public benefits system, raising serious concerns about oversight and internal controls.
The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed the arrest of Leticia Mariscal, a 55-year-old former benefits eligibility worker in Madera County. Prosecutors say Mariscal used her position to unlawfully obtain food assistance benefits over several years by manipulating sensitive government records.
Authorities Say Employee Exploited Access to County Databases
According to court documents, Mariscal allegedly misused her authorized access to county systems to retrieve personal information belonging to old individuals, including people who were already deceased. Investigators claim she then enrolled those names into CalFresh, California’s food assistance program linked to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The alleged activity is said to have occurred between December 2020 and April 2025, allowing the scheme to continue undetected for years.
Fake Approvals and EBT Cards Allegedly Used for Personal Spending
Prosecutors allege that Mariscal approved benefit applications that should never have been authorized and generated Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards in the names of the individuals whose identities were used. Authorities say the benefits loaded onto those cards were then spent by Mariscal herself.
Investigators believe more than 15 identities were involved, with estimated losses totaling at least $40,000, according to reporting by the New York Post.
Tip From Family Member Triggered Investigation
The case reportedly came to light after the son of a 91-year-old woman living in a nursing facility questioned why food assistance benefits were being issued in his mother’s name. That inquiry prompted a broader review, eventually uncovering the alleged fraud.
Investigators say Mariscal later admitted to the conduct when presented with surveillance footage. She allegedly attempted to place blame on a former boyfriend, claiming fear for her safety influenced her actions.
FBI-Led Probe and Potential Prison Sentence
Mariscal was placed on administrative leave earlier this year once the irregularities were discovered. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Madera County District Attorney’s Office.
If convicted, Mariscal faces up to 10 years in federal prison and fines that could reach $250,000.
This case highlights the importance of safeguarding public assistance programs designed to support vulnerable communities and ensuring strict accountability for those entrusted with managing taxpayer-funded resources.
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