June 27, 2025

Man Charged with Insurance Fraud for COVID-19 Benefits

News Summary

Forrest Young Putnam, a 34-year-old from Younges Island, faces multiple charges including fraud and forgery. He allegedly obtained over $10,000 in unemployment benefits by falsely claiming to be laid off due to COVID-19. Investigations revealed that he was still employed and had not requested a leave of absence. Putnam is currently in custody as the case is prosecuted by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, highlighting ongoing issues related to unemployment fraud amid the pandemic.

Charleston, South Carolina – A 34-year-old man, Forrest Young Putnam from Younges Island, has been charged with multiple offenses related to insurance fraud, specifically involving over $10,000 in unemployment benefits. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has charged Putnam with obtaining property under false pretenses, forgery, and violating the first-degree computer crime act. These charges stem from allegations that he fraudulently applied for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits through the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SCDEW) between May 2020 and June 2021.

According to state authorities, Putnam received more than $10,000 in Disaster Unemployment Assistance by falsely claiming he was forced to take a leave of absence due to fears of contracting COVID-19. He asserted that his store had closed because of the pandemic, which formed the basis of his claim for unemployment benefits. However, the owner and manager of the store where Putnam was employed confirmed that he had neither been terminated nor had he requested a leave of absence or been laid off, contradicting Putnam’s assertions.

Putnam’s application for UI and Disaster Unemployment Assistance was rooted in his claims about being separated from his job as a result of the pandemic. Yet, the evidence provided by the store’s management contradicted his claims, leading authorities to investigate the matter further. Following his arrest, Putnam was booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Richland County, where he will remain pending further legal proceedings.

The case against Putnam will be prosecuted by the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, which is responsible for legal proceedings involving criminal offenses within the state. Granting this significant amount of unemployment benefits under false pretenses constitutes a serious crime, especially during a time when such resources are critical for individuals genuinely affected by the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding unemployment fraud, particularly as states struggle to manage and distribute resources effectively during times of crisis. Fraudulent claims can undermine efforts to provide support to those in real need, potentially depriving rightful recipients of essential aid.

Insurance fraud, particularly related to unemployment benefits, has been a growing concern across the nation as states work to implement guidelines to curb fraudulent activities. While many individuals have faced significant hardships due to the pandemic, instances of fraud and abuse highlight the need for thorough investigations and enforcement of regulations. The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, along with SLED, is actively working to identify and prosecute fraud to ensure that assistance is available for legitimate claimants.

Forrest Young Putnam’s arrest serves as a reminder of the legal repercussions associated with insurance fraud. As authorities continue to crack down on fraudulent claims, individuals contemplating such actions are faced with increasing risk of prosecution and the potential for significant penalties.

This ongoing case will draw attention as it proceeds through the legal system, shedding light on the broader issue of unemployment fraud and enforcement measures still in effect as the economy begins to recover from the pandemic’s impact.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.