Article doesn’t mention that she poured $20,000 of EBT benefits into her business.
I’m seeing people complaining that she shouldn’t be targeted. She was just trying to provide for her children. Small business. Etc.
To get EBT you have to use it for yourself and your family. The linked article notes:
Teneyuque reportedly spent half of her earnings on baking supplies. DHS approved her application, and she signed an agreement promising to “use my benefits legally and will not sell, trade, or give away my benefits online or in person.” (Interesting that the article calls the government benefits “earnings.” But I digress.)
From a different article, when she was confronted with the possibility that this was illegal:
“She said that she purchases everything for her children,” Tibbits said. The investigator showed Teneyuque a list of purchased items that seemingly aligned with her business’ Facebook posts.
“She just said, ‘I know how this looks but I did not do this,’” Tibbits said.
And elsewhere:
She added how she works hard “to create joyful, meaningful moments for my children. Especially through the desserts I love to make. Whether it’s a birthday cake, a holiday dessert table, or a treat after dinner, these creations are my way of showing love. I put time, care, and creativity into each one, not just for others, but especially for my own family.”
“I’ve never lied or misused these benefits,” she wrote.
Government offered a plea deal that would have left nothing on her record. She refused. Now it’s going to court.