Dallas, Texas – James Peabody, a Liberian man, received a 20-year federal prison sentence for orchestrating a $2.6 million fraud scheme targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton announced the sentencing, emphasizing the devastating impact on vulnerable beneficiaries.
Peabody, 34, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in August. U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman, presiding over the case, described the crime as “one of the most disturbing schemes” he’d encountered.
SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, provides essential support to low-income Americans. Peabody and co-conspirators Saybah Keihn, 48, and Margretta Jabbeh, 43, exploited this program by opening African food stores and obtaining SNAP merchant privileges.
Their fraudulent activities drained accounts meant for needy and disabled individuals, leaving victims unable to purchase essential household items. FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Chad Yarbrough emphasized the severity of their actions, stating that the FBI and its partners would not tolerate such exploitation.
As Peabody begins his lengthy prison term, the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding federal programs designed to assist those in need.
Image credit: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Texas
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