Man pleads guilty to $102K SNAP benefits theft

Former Lenoir County social services worker admitted to defrauding government food assistance program

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:34am

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An extreme close-up of a crumpled SNAP benefits card reflecting a bright flash of light, conceptually illustrating the misuse of government social welfare funds.A former social services worker's abuse of trust has led to the theft of over $100,000 in vital food assistance funds.Lenoir Today

Deshaune White, a 24-year-old former employee of the Lenoir County Department of Social Services, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a scheme to defraud more than $102,000 from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Why it matters

The theft of government benefits intended to help low-income families access food is a serious abuse of public trust, especially when committed by someone working within the social services system.

The details

White, who worked for the Lenoir County Department of Social Services, admitted to fraudulently obtaining SNAP benefits for himself and others who were not eligible for the program. The total amount stolen exceeded $102,000 in taxpayer money.

  • On March 31, 2026, Deshaune White pleaded guilty in federal court.

The players

Deshaune White

A 24-year-old former employee of the Lenoir County Department of Social Services who pleaded guilty to defrauding over $102,000 from the SNAP benefits program.

Lenoir County Department of Social Services

The government agency where Deshaune White was employed and from which he stole SNAP benefits.

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What’s next

Deshaune White will be sentenced at a later date for his federal fraud conviction.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong oversight and accountability measures within social services programs to prevent fraud and ensure taxpayer funds reach those truly in need.