PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island State Police have charged 24 people they say were responsible for stealing nearly $50,000 in food stamp benefits.

Authorities say 22 suspects were charged with fraudulently obtaining assistance and 23 were charged with fraudulent use of food stamps. According to police, two suspects were charged with obtaining money under false pretenses and another was charged with filing false documents.

Col. Ann Assumpico says the department opened the investigation after a Rhode Island Department of Administration analysis identified $48,966.12 in stolen benefits.

The suspects have been taken into custody and held for arraignment.

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