HUDSON – Four people have been arrested by the Columbia County Welfare Fraud Task Force as the county continues its investigations.

Arrested by the Sheriff’s Office were Andrew Barco, 63, of New Lebanon and Tabitha Muller, 25, of Craryville, each charged with welfare fraud in the fourth degree, grand larceny in the fourth degree and filing a false written statement, all felonies. Also arrested was Dina-Marie Olivieri, 33, of Hudson, who was charged with grand larceny in the third degree and welfare fraud in the third degree, both felonies, as well as filing a false written statement.

James Begraph of Hudson was charged with the misdemeanors of petit larceny and welfare fraud in the fifth degree.

Olivieri is accused of stealing over $3,000; Barca, $1,200; Miller, $1,000 and Begraph, $200.

Sheriff David Harrison, Jr. said since the inception of the task force in April 11 people have been arrested on welfare fraud and $116,700 in taxpayer money has been saved.

Anyone who may have information about individuals or companies illegally obtaining public assistance is asked to call the Welfare Fraud Task Force hotline at 518-822-8477.