A Jamestown woman is facing several felony charges following an investigation into welfare fraud. A joint investigation by the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Health and Human Services has led to charges being placed against 33-year-old Brandi Briggs. Investigators accuse Briggs of receiving $3,627 in illegal food stamp benefits. Briggs allegedly failed to notify DHHS that her children were no longer residing with her and she continued receiving benefits for them. Briggs has been charged with welfare fraud in the 3rd degree, offering a false instrument for filing in the 1st degree, grand larceny in the 3rd degree and misuse of food stamps over $3,000. She will appear in Jamestown City Court at a later date.
