Buffalo Deli Owner Faces Welfare Fraud Charges

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — A Buffalo deli owner is facing welfare fraud charges for allegedly purchasing food stamps from people who were willing to take cash for them.

Thirty-seven-year-old Ahmed Alshami has been charged with criminal possession of public benefit cards, misuse of food stamps and criminal use of a public benefit card. He was arraigned on Tuesday and pleaded not guilty.

Investigators say Alshami purchased EBT cards from people for normally half of their worth and would use the cards to purchase items he would re-sell in his store. Authorities say he would also have card holders purchase items for the store.

The transactions totaled more than $3,800.

He's also been charged with burglary for allegedly stealing kitchen cabinets, a hot water tank and baseboard heating units from a rental property.

It couldn't be determined if he has a lawyer.

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]