Ohio investigators serve search warrant at Lorain store accused of food stamp fraud

LORAIN, Ohio - NewsChannel5 investigators were there as agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit served a search warrant related to food stamp fraud at a Lorain convenience store Friday afternoon.

Investigators said Adames Deli & Grocery, 1700 East 31st St., was letting customers use food stamps to buy ineligible items, like newspapers, and pay their cell phone bills.

The investigation was sparked by a citizen complaint, according to Julie Hinds, the public information officer for the Ohio Investigative Unit.

Hinds said criminal charges against the store's owners will be filed at a later date.

OIU agents have already issued 12 liquor permit violations against the store.

The Ohio Investigative Unit is part of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. If you suspect a store is committing food stamp fraud, called 877-4-MINORS.

Hinds said all complaints remain anonymous.

NewsChannel5 investigators, along with our partners at the Scripps Howard News Service, have been investigating food stamp fraud in Northeast Ohio.

We found people are buying beer, cigarettes and even cars, using food stamps.

Look for the full investigation into food stamp fraud on NewsChannel5 at 11 p.m. later this month.