Shakopee Prisoner Stole $63K in Public Assistance Funds, Charges Say
A woman serving a prison sentence in Shakopee has been charged after orchestrating a scheme to obtain public assistance funds.
Pamela Ann Williams, 56, is accused of wrongfully obtaining public assistance and committing theft by swindle from Jan. 2024 to Oct. 2024.
The Ramsey County Attorney’s Office filed the complaint, alleging Williams continued to receive benefits including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, General Assistance and Medical Assistance while she is incarcerated. The total loss to the state exceeds $63,000.
According to the complaint, the Department of Human Services flagged the case in Aug. 2024, noting the defendant was listed as receiving help from a personal care assistant despite being in prison since January. Investigators discovered payments intended for PCA care were funneled back to her through accomplices. These funds were allegedly deposited into her prison financial account, which grew to approximately $10,000.
Surveillance footage showed a woman withdrawing funds from Williams’ EBT card during her incarceration. Williams allegedly confirmed the accomplice’s identity during an interview with investigators and phone recordings captured discussions between the two about the fraud.
Additionally, authorities allege Williams and her accomplices submitted false documents to Alliance Home Care Services, claiming PCA services were provided while she was imprisoned. When payments ceased, she reportedly contacted the care provider to inquire about missing funds.
Williams faces four felony charges, including two counts of wrongfully obtaining assistance and two counts of theft by swindle. The charges carry maximum penalties ranging from 10 to 20 years in prison or fines up to $100,000. Williams, who has been incarcerated since January for multiple domestic assault charges, remains in prison. She is expected to make a court appearance on her new charges later this month.
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