(FL) New measure to offer cash to turn in food stamp thieves

[The Straight Story]

ORLANDO, Fla. —

9 Investigates first exposed people stealing millions of your tax dollars by abusing Florida’s food stamp program.

A new measure would offer cash to people who turn in the thieves. This bill was based on the investigations Channel 9's Vanessa Welch has done during the past year.

Viewers were angry when they saw video of a woman swiping one food stamp card after another at a local Sam's Club. Lawmakers were angry, too, and drafted a bill that hands out big rewards to anyone who helps catch food stamp cheaters.

The police video Channel 9 first exposed months ago shows how easy it is for an undercover detective to sell a food stamp card for cash.

"Is there any way I can get $200 for my card?" the agent asked.

"Give me half an hour," the store owner told him.

http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/9-investigates-crackdown-food-stamp-fraud/ndjtC/

[gerogie2]

1. People will just make false allegations to collect money

This type of monetary reward system is also done is the crime tip hotlines. The problem the police have with such tips is trying to weed out the 95% of false tips in an attempt to collect the monetary reward.

[The Straight Story]

3. They should be putting out rewards to get the folks on wall street

I'd be calling that hot line.

[JeffHead]

2. Let the witch hunt begin. n/t