Nelson v. Dumpson
The court annulled the determination by the State Commissioner of Social Services, which had affirmed the New York City commissioner's decision to recoup an overpayment of public assistance from the petitioner. The overpayment was due to the inclusion of the petitioner's son, Frank, in the budget while he was outside the household. The initial determination was based on section 348.4 of the regulations of the State Department of Social Services (18 NYCRR 348.4), concerning 'suspected fraud' requiring evidence of willful withholding of information. However, the record from the fair hearing lacked substantial evidence to establish willful withholding or fraud. The petitioner testified to disclosing Frank's absence, and respondent's records did not contradict this. This annulment does not preclude the respondent from seeking relief for overpayment due to honest mistake.