Flood Grant Fraudster Caught

A woman will face court for allegedly fraudulently claiming Government Flood Recovery Grants.

About 10.30am Monday 19 February following an investigation, Detectives from the Serious and Organised Financial Crime Investigation Section attended an Encounter Bay address and arrested the occupant, a 47-year-old woman.

It will be alleged that the woman submitted false applications to the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science relating to the Early Business Closure Grant and Small Business Flood Recovery Grant as a result of the 2022/2023 Murray River floods.

She has been charged with one count of deception (amount approximately $10,000) and one count of dishonest dealings with documents 9amount approximately $6,543). The offences were allegedly committed between 21 Dec 2022 and 21 Mar 2023.

The woman was bailed to appear at the Victor Harbor Magistrates Court on 5 April.

Officers from the Serious and Organised Financial Crime Investigation Section are continuing their investigation and working collaboratively with the Department for Industry, Innovation and Science to ascertain and identify any further fraudulent applications.

You can anonymously provide information to Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or 1800 333 000.

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