INDIANAPOLIS  – On Thursday, March 14 charges were filled against Jeffrey J. Batta, 53, of Franklin County for allegedly committing unemployment insurance fraud, a Class C Felony. According to the probable cause affidavit, Batta worked full-time while receiving unemployment insurance benefits. He stands accused of defrauding the State of Indiana of nearly $22,000. 

The investigation began when the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) inspected payroll records related to Batta’s claim, as well as agency records and information from Batta’s employer to verify details of the alleged crime. The case was then turned over to the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office and a warrant was issued for Batta’s arrest. 

DWD receives wage reports and new hire data from Hoosier employers documenting who is employed and receiving compensation. The agency uses this information to ensure people are not collecting unemployment insurance benefits while working.

You can also help combat unemployment insurance fraud and abuse by reporting it online at www.in.gov/dwd/fraud. Your efforts will help ensure tax dollars are spent wisely and unemployment insurance benefits are only paid to people who are eligible to receive them. You do not need to provide your name or any other identifying information in order to file a complaint in regards to unemployment insurance fraud.

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