TOWN OF LOCKPORT — Three women were charged with welfare fraud following investigations by the Niagara County Department of Social Services and the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Welfare Fraud Unit, according to Niagara County Sheriff Jim Voutour.
Christine Willet, 45, of North Tonawanda was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, fourth-degree welfare fraud, and first-degree offering a false instrument for filing. She is due in Lockport City Court on Sept. 26.
Pauline Laettner, 53, of North Tonawanda, was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, fourth-degree welfare fraud, and first-degree offering a false instrument for filing. She is due in Lockport City Court on Sept. 28.
Shawnette Coates, 38, of Niagara Falls, was charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, fourth-degree welfare fraud, and two counts of first-degree offering a false instrument for filing. She is due in Lockport City Court on Sept. 28, as well.
All three individuals were release on appearance tickets.