(WNY News Now) – Authorities allege more than $14,000 in improperly received benefits following a multi-agency investigation.
A Dunkirk woman has been charged in connection with an alleged welfare fraud scheme following a joint investigation by county and state authorities, according to the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators arrested Kristina L. Beaujean, 43, of Dunkirk, on February 4, 2026, at approximately 12:20 p.m., in connection with an ongoing welfare fraud investigation. Beaujean is charged with two counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree, Welfare Fraud in the Fourth Degree, and Misuse of Food Stamps.
According to officials, the investigation was conducted by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services Program Integrity Unit and the Chautauqua County District Attorney’s Office.
Authorities allege that between January 2022 and August 2023, Beaujean improperly received more than $14,000 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to which she was not entitled. The charges stem from claims that false information was submitted in order to obtain those benefits.
Following her arrest, Beaujean was issued an appearance ticket. She is scheduled to appear in City of Dunkirk Court at a later date to answer the charges.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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