PORTLAND, Maine (AP) � A state agency is blaming a computer glitch for letters that falsely characterize about 200 recipients of state aid as felons, fugitives or parole violators.
WGME-TV says the Department of Health and Human Services confirmed that the letters mistakenly notified recipients that they were no longer eligible for food stamps and rent assistance.
Kelly Ramsey, who has been getting state aid to help raise her 2-year-old son, told the station that she nearly fell to the floor when she read the letter that erroneously said she was a convicted felon, a fugitive from justice or parole violator.
Ramsey said she contacted DHHS and was told that the letters were sent out because of a computer error. The agency apologized for the mistake and said all benefits have been reinstated.