..as JD Vance Task Force Uncovers Nearly $42 Million in SNAP Fraud - Google Search
The only question is why it took so long, and how he got away with it for so long ?!?!?!?!
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Atlanta-based rapper and social media influencer Mercedes New, known as Shawty Dred, has been federally indicted in a 4.4 million dollar Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food stamp fraud scheme.
The announcement was part of a press conference held by Vice President JD Vance and federal law enforcement officials regarding a nationwide enforcement effort.
Key Details of the Shawty Dred Case
- The Accused: 39-year-old Mercedes New (Shawty Dred) of Atlanta, Georgia.
- The Allegations: New is accused of food stamp fraud, access device fraud, mail fraud, and aggravated identity theft
- How the Scheme Worked: Investigators state New compromised the Georgia Department of Human Services interactive voice response system, accessing it over 9,000 times using more than 350 individual SNAP accounts created with stolen identities. Fraudulent EBT cards were mailed to various addresses in the metro Atlanta area. He authorized his business, Shawty Dred LLC, as a SNAP retailer and processed fraudulent transactions or sold the EBT cards on the street.
- Social Media Taunts: New frequently flaunted a luxury lifestyle on Instagram and TikTok, showing off private jets, luxury cars, and stacks of cash, and even setting cash on fire while taunting viewers.
National Task Force Enforcement Surge
- The Operation: The Justice Department announced its first National USDA Benefits and Program Fraud Enforcement Surge running from September 1 to October 21, 2026.
- The Totals: Vice President JD Vance and Attorney General Todd Blanche reported that the fraud task force uncovered nearly 42 million dollars in total SNAP benefit fraud across 13 federal districts, resulting in charges against more than 40 defendants.
- Impact: Officials noted that the 42 million dollars in stolen funds represents resources diverted from low-income families who rely on food assistance.
