Review Underway Of CT State Troopers' Applications For Post-Irene Aid

HARTFORD, CT (WCBS 880 / AP) - Two state troopers said to have applied for food stamp assistance when the government offered aid following Tropical Storm Irene are under review for possible fraud, WCBS 880's Fran Schneidau reports.

WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau On The Story

Andrew Matthews, who heads the Connecticut State Police union, says a departmental review is underway but he points out even though at least one of the troopers earned $124,000 during the most recent fiscal year, he would not necessarily be disqualified for government assistance.

"You could potentially have an employee that qualifies, legitimately qualifies, for the program because their spouse doesn't work, and they have a large number of children," Matthews told WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau.

He asks that the public not be too quick to judge.

"We think that when the conclusion of the investigation is done, then people should probably comment on it, but not until then," he said.

There are allegations that, in all, four Connecticut state troopers may have applied for the government assistance. There are a total of 24 state workers suspected of fraud.

If the accusations are proven, state employees could face criminal charges that could affect their pensions.

Do you know of any fraud in the wake of Irene? Share your story in the comments section below!

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