Pembroke Pines Woman Arrested in Massive SNAP Fraud Scheme

Detectives say she stole hundreds of EBT card numbers and PINs to buy and resell high-demand items.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:05pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked and damaged EBT card, conceptually representing the theft and misuse of government food assistance funds.A damaged EBT card symbolizes the real-world impact of large-scale SNAP fraud on vulnerable families.Pembroke Pines Today

A 43-year-old Pembroke Pines woman has been arrested and charged with stealing hundreds of government food assistance card numbers and using them to buy popular items that she then resold to stores for cash, according to Broward County Sheriff's Office detectives. Tamica Brown allegedly obtained the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) card information through unknown means and used it to make purchases both in person and online, causing over $120,000 in losses to the federally-funded program.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of SNAP/EBT card fraud, which can have serious consequences for low-income families who rely on these benefits to feed themselves and their children. The theft of EBT card information can deplete funds and leave vulnerable recipients unable to purchase necessary food and groceries.

The details

According to the affidavit, Brown was first arrested in July 2025 while trying to use stolen EBT card numbers to make purchases at a Walmart in Cooper City. She claimed she had permission to use the numbers, but detectives later interviewed one of the victims who said they had never met Brown or given her their card information. A forensic audit of Brown's phone revealed evidence of her involvement in 'organized large-scale EBT/SNAP food stamp and payment card fraud,' with numerous text messages and communications indicating she was working with others to commit these crimes. Detectives say Brown used the stolen card numbers to buy popular items like energy and sports drinks, which she then resold to corner and convenience stores. She allegedly made purchases both in person and online, including through Amazon.

  • In July 2025, Brown was arrested while trying to use stolen EBT card numbers at a Walmart.
  • From December 2024 to July 2025, Brown used the stolen card numbers to make purchases and resell the items.

The players

Tamica Brown

A 43-year-old Pembroke Pines resident who has been charged with criminal use of personal identification information and trafficking in counterfeit credit cards for her alleged role in the SNAP fraud scheme.

Broward Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that conducted the investigation and made the arrest of Tamica Brown.

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The federal agency that oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance benefits to low-income individuals and families.

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What they’re saying

“'This allowed her to convert stolen government benefits into cash for financial gain.'”

— Clauddine Caro, BSO Spokeswoman

What’s next

Detectives say they have identified around 200 victims so far and are continuing to investigate the full scope of the fraud scheme. Brown is currently being held on $300,000 bond on charges related to the theft and misuse of the SNAP card information.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences of SNAP/EBT card fraud, which can leave vulnerable low-income families without access to critical food assistance. It underscores the need for stronger safeguards and oversight to protect the integrity of these government benefit programs.