SHERIFF’S OFFICE ARRESTS MAN ON WELFARE FRAUD
Hudson, NY – Columbia County Sheriff David P. Bartlett reports that on Thursday February 9th at 8:00am, a Hudson man was arrested and charged with crimes associated with Welfare Fraud. Investigator William Dunspaugh, who is assigned to the Columbia County Welfare Fraud Task Force, began a joint investigation with the Columbia County Department of Social Services starting in September of 2015 which resulted in the arrest of 54 year old Peter J. McArdle.
It is alleged that the defendant collected public assistance benefits after submitting false paperwork on six separate dates to the Columbia County Department of Social Services and obtained benefits totaling $41,091.83, which he was not entitled too. The extensive investigation concluded with the arrest of McArdle. He has been charged with one count of Welfare Fraud in the 3th degree (Class D Felony) and six counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing 1st degree (Class E Felony) by Investigator Dunspaugh.
Peter McArdle was arraigned before the Honorable Judge Herman in the Hudson City Court, and released on his own recognizance. He will appear in Columbia County Court at a later date.
The Columbia County Department of Social Services and Columbia County District Attorney Paul Czjaka’s Office assisted with the investigation.
If anyone has information of or suspicion of anyone committing welfare fraud, please call the Sheriff’s Office Crimes Tips Line at 822-8477. Callers can remain anonymous if they wish.