Local News in Brief : Food Stamp Fraud Case

Four men, including the owners of a Los Angeles cafe and a grocery store, were charged Friday with fraudulently redeeming more than $250,000 worth of food stamps.

Charged were Yung Chul Lo, 33, of San Gabriel, owner of the Pioneer Grocery and Deli Restaurant; Jong Kee Kim, 37, and Sa Sook Kim, 35, both of Temple City, and Andi Anh, 28, of Los Angeles. The Kims owned and operated the Pioneer Cafe, 243 E. 5th St., which is next door to the grocery. Anh worked at the cafe.

A federal grand jury indictment alleges that the four men used “runners” to buy food stamp coupons from low-income people for half their value, then redeemed them for full value.

The charges against the four include conspiracy, unlawful acquisition of food stamp coupons and unlawful redemption of food stamp coupons. Lo faces up to 25 years in prison and a $1.2-million fine if convicted. The Kims face up to 15 years and a $750,000 fine, and Anh faces up to 10 years and a $500,000 fine. None could be reached for comment.