Former Erie County DSS employee admits to stealing HEAP benefits

Yahoo

02-04-2025

BUFFALO — A former Erie County Department of Social Services employee was recently caught using her position to fraudulently divert public assistance funds for personal gain, according to State Welfare Inspector General Lucy Lang.
Denise Nelson, 56, of Buffalo, pleaded guilty Wednesday in Erie County Court before the Honorable Sheila A. DiTullio to one count of third-degree attempted grand larceny, a class E felony under New York State Penal Law. Under the terms of her plea agreement, Nelson has made full restitution of $4,917 to the Erie County Department of Social Services, National Grid, and National Fuel Gas.
Following a referral from the Erie County Department of Social Services, an investigation by the Inspector General's Office revealed that Nelson misused her access as an Erie County Department of Social Services worker to redirect HEAP benefits in the names of other people to properties she owned, without the knowledge or consent of the rightful recipients.
Her fraudulent actions resulted in nearly $5,000 worth of unauthorized heating services at the expense of Erie County taxpayers.
'As a public employee, Ms. Nelson was entrusted with administering essential services to those in need,' Lang said. 'Instead, she exploited her position for personal gain, undermining a vital program intended to assist vulnerable New Yorkers. This case underscores our unwavering commitment to holding those who abuse public resources accountable.'
'This program is reserved for low-income individuals and families who truly need help paying for their home utilities,' added Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane. 'I want to thank the Offices of the New York State Inspector General and Erie County Department of Social Services HEAP Office for their partnership in this investigation. Together, we will continue to hold those who fraudulently obtain these benefits accountable.'
Nelson's employment with the Erie County DSS was terminated as a result of her actions.
Inspector General Lang extended her appreciation to the investigative team, including Investigative Counsel John Philipps, Investigator Erynn Migaj, and Investigator Christopher Martello, under the supervision of Deputy Inspector General Jeffrey Hagen, Chief of Investigations Martin Stanford, and Attorney-in-Charge of Welfare Matters Andrew Weiss.
Lang also commended the Erie County Department of Social Services for its prompt referral and cooperation, as well as DA Keane and his office for their diligent prosecution of the case.