Waterford Man Charged with Childcare Fraud

Accused of billing Saratoga County for services not provided

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 48-year-old Waterford man has been arrested and charged with two counts of Third Degree Grand Larceny and 11 counts of First Degree Offering a False Instrument for Filing. Authorities allege that Jason L. Wellington fraudulently billed Saratoga County for childcare services he did not provide in 2025, stealing over $3,000 on two occasions.

Why it matters

Childcare fraud cases like this one undermine public trust in social services programs and can lead to higher costs for taxpayers. The investigation highlights the importance of oversight and accountability measures to prevent such abuses.

The details

According to the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, the investigation into Wellington's alleged fraud was a joint effort between the Sheriff's Office and the Special Investigations Unit of the Saratoga County Department of Social Services. Wellington was arraigned in Ballston Spa Village Court and released.

  • On February 12, 2026, Wellington was arrested and charged.

The players

Jason L. Wellington

A 48-year-old Waterford man charged with two counts of Third Degree Grand Larceny and 11 counts of First Degree Offering a False Instrument for Filing.

Saratoga County Sheriff's Office

Conducted the investigation into Wellington's alleged fraud, in collaboration with the Saratoga County Department of Social Services.

Saratoga County Department of Social Services

The Special Investigations Unit of the Saratoga County Department of Social Services participated in the investigation into Wellington's alleged fraud.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of robust oversight and accountability measures in social services programs to prevent fraud and protect taxpayer funds.