Saginaw Woman Charged with Bridge Card Fraud for Allegedly Selling Baked Goods

A Saginaw woman is confronting serious legal repercussions after being accused of misusing her Bridge Card benefits to purchase ingredients for baked goods, which she then allegedly sold for profit.

On June 30, authorities issued a warrant for 32-year-old Talia C. Teneyuque, charging her with one count of food stamp fraud exceeding $1,000. This felony charge carries potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The Bridge Card serves as Michigan's electronic benefits transfer (EBT) system, providing eligible residents with food assistance, commonly referred to as food stamps. Misuse of these benefits undermines the program's integrity and diverts resources from those in genuine need.

Instances of food stamp fraud have been on the rise in Michigan. In fiscal year 2024, the state identified over $14 million in fraudulent food assistance activities, highlighting the challenges in safeguarding public assistance programs.

Authorities continue to investigate this case, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of assistance programs designed to support vulnerable populations.