Man given 2 years for welfare fraud

Alberto Alvarez, 36, of Madera, has been sentenced to serve two years in county jail for welfare fraud.

Alvarez was accused of fraudulently collecting more than $4,000 in welfare aid from December 2010 to November 2012. The Madera County District Attorney’s Office alleged that Alvarez failed to disclose his prior convictions for possession of drugs for purpose of sale when he applied for welfare benefits, which would have disqualified him from receiving benefits.

Alvarez must also pay more than $4,000 restitution to the Madera County Department of Social Services for the welfare benefits obtained fraudulently.

The Special Investigations Unit of the Madera County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case. District Attorney David A. Linn praised the unit’s efforts. “Welfare fraud is an increasing problem, and we will continue to vigorously prosecute suspects in order to protect the community and hold accountable those who wrongly take funds which should be devoted to those in the community who truly need assistance.” ...