Tacoma Man Accused of Trying to Trade Pot for Food Stamps

TACOMA (AP) — A Tacoma has been charged with trying to trade marijuana for food stamps through a Craigslist ad while on work-release from prison.

The News Tribune reported Tuesday that the 28-year-old suspect was charged last week with unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of marijuana by a prisoner and trafficking in food coupons.

Court documents say police were alerted to the suspect's online advertisement by a state Department of Social and Health Services investigator.

An officer then arranged a deal with the suspect to trade 2 ounces of pot for about $500 in food stamps.

The suspect was arrested when he met with the officer at a store parking lot.

According to data from the department, fraudulent use of food benefits costs the state $11 million a year.