Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Florida is launching a new Public Assistance Fraud Task Force

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Tuesday that Florida is launching a new Public Assistance Fraud Task Force. This multi-agency group aims to strengthen the state’s legal response to fraud in taxpayer-funded benefit programs.

The task force will centralize legal guidance and prosecution strategies for cases involving programs like Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, housing assistance, and reemployment benefits. This should help state agencies and law enforcement build stronger criminal cases across different areas.

“We are launching this task force to bring accountability and prosecute those who are stealing from Floridians,” Uthmeier said.“Florida is not Minnesota or California, and we will safeguard the taxpayers’ investment in the services meant for the vulnerable.”

Uthmeier also named Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Scott Strauss as Special Prosecutor. Strauss will oversee ongoing multi-circuit investigations and help move cases from agency investigations to courtroom verdicts.

The task force includes agencies like the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Office of Statewide Prosecution, the FDLE, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Officials say this will help investigators and prosecutors work together more quickly on complex cases that cross county lines.

“Floridians deserve a government that safeguards their taxpayer dollars from thieves and fraudsters,” said Statewide Prosecutor Brad McVay. “Taxpayer-funded benefit programs exist to support some of our most vulnerable citizens. Holding accountable those who exploit these programs is essential to protecting both public trust and the people these resources are meant to serve.”

Public assistance fraud can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the case. Penalties may include fines, restitution, and prison time.