2 Hawaii women accused of welfare fraud got thousands in state assistance
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HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - In unrelated cases, two Hawaii women have been charged after suspicion of welfare fraud.
Attorney General Doug Chin announced Tuesday charges were filed against 41-year old Lucyma Maifea of Waianae, and Rowaena Baker, a 35-year old Aiea resident.
According to the attorney general, Maifea allegedly applied for and received public assistance in benefits worth upwards of $20,000. The assistance, which officials say she was not entitled to, came between Jan. 1 2008 and Dec. 31, 2014.
Baker is accused of similar actions also totaling upwards of $20,000. Baker's alleged actions took place between May 1, 2014 and April 30, 2017.
The two face first degree theft charges, a Class B felony. If convicted, they could spend up to 10 years behind bars and be forced to pay a $25,000 fine.
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