(WNY News Now) – A 38-year-old Jamestown woman has been indicted on 20 counts following an investigation into allegations that she used information belonging to Social Services clients to obtain temporary assistance benefits for herself, according to Chautauqua County officials.

Amber Tibbetts, 38, of Jamestown, was arraigned August 5 before Chautauqua County Judge David Foley after a county grand jury issued a 20-count indictment. She pleaded not guilty and was released on her own recognizance under New York’s bail laws.

Tibbetts is charged with six counts of first-degree Tampering with Public Records, four counts of second-degree Forgery, six counts of second-degree Identity Theft, three counts of Petit Larceny and one count of fourth-degree Corrupting the Government.

According to county officials, Tibbetts allegedly used her position within the Department of Social Services to access existing clients’ information and issue benefit cards to herself.

The investigation began after two Social Services clients reported suspicious activity involving their benefits cards. The department’s Program Integrity Unit reviewed the reports and referred the matter to the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office for further investigation.

The Program Integrity Unit works to identify potential fraud, waste, abuse and noncompliance involving public assistance programs. Its work includes audits, case reviews, data analysis and investigations based on complaints or referrals.

The investigation involved the Program Integrity Unit, the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division and the District Attorney’s Office.

County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. said the investigation demonstrates the county’s efforts to protect public resources and maintain accountability.

“Taxpayers deserve to know that strong safeguards are in place to protect public resources and ensure accountability at every level of government,” said Wendel. “The work of the Program Integrity Unit reflects our commitment to responsible government and demonstrates the value of having dedicated professionals reviewing programs, identifying concerns, and taking action when necessary.” 

Officials emphasized that most public employees serve residents professionally and that oversight programs are intended to identify potential misconduct while maintaining public confidence in government services.

Tibbetts is represented by attorney Lyle Hajdu. Her next court appearance is scheduled for September 9 for a discovery conference.

The charges are allegations, and Tibbetts is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Chautauqua County Social Services encourages employees, recipients, service providers and members of the public to report suspected fraud or misuse of benefits through the county’s Program Integrity Unit.