NORWICH – Investigators arrested four people last week for unrelated welfare crimes, allegeding they stole nearly $14,000 from social aid programs designed to help the less fortunate.

The Department of Social Services Welfare Fraud Investigations Unit and the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office arrested four people accused of failing to report changes in their living arrangements or income to DSS after originally being approved for some of the money.

Hope M. Astrologo, 35, of Afton, was charged with third degree welfare fraud and first degree offering a false instrument for filing, both felonies. Allegedly, Astrologo stole $8,583.80 in aid she was not entitled to.

Sean P. Cole, 28, of McDonough, was charged with fourth degree welfare fraud and first degree offering a false instrument for filing, both felonies. Allegedly, Cole stole $2,832 in aid he was not entitled to.