Downey couple charged with welfare fraud

DOWNEY - A Downey couple has been arrested for accepting more than $68,000 in fraudulent MediCal and welfare benefits while operating a limousine business.Saleshni and Shailendra Prasad, both 42, were among nearly two dozen people arrested June 4 by state and federal authorities on charges of bilking taxpayers out of more than $2.3 million in phony public assistance benefits. "Again we see the truly needy deprived of benefits by the truly greedy," said District Attorney Steve Cooley. "The perilous financial situation facing so many of our citizens who are losing jobs and homes illustrates the need for assistance. These cheats steal from the very programs that might help someone survive through tough economic times." Authorities allege that Saleshni and Shailendra Prasad operated a local limousine business while receiving more than $68,000 in public assistance.

********** Published: June 12, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 8