North Carolina Woman Identified After Filming Herself Committing EBT Fraud Inside Food Lion, Authorities Confirm Charges

ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. — A woman in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, is facing criminal charges after she allegedly filmed herself committing EBT fraud inside a Food Lion grocery store and posted the footage online. Authorities have confirmed that the woman has been identified and charged, following an investigation sparked by the viral video.

The video, originally posted on social media, shows the woman openly boasting about how she manipulates the checkout system to pay less for groceries. In the 31-second clip, she holds up her receipt while standing in the store’s checkout line and laughs, apparently proud of her actions.

The caption shared alongside the video by commentator David J. Harris Jr. read: “Woman films herself committing EBT fraud by swapping price tags before buying groceries.” The footage quickly went viral, with thousands of users expressing disbelief that someone would record themselves committing a crime.

How the Fraud Happened

According to Food Lion management, the woman allegedly swapped price tags on grocery items before proceeding through checkout, allowing her to pay significantly less for the products. This type of manipulation — known as price tag switching or “ticket switching” — is considered a form of retail fraud and theft under North Carolina law.

The woman reportedly used her Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to pay for the altered items, which investigators say qualifies as EBT fraud because she used federal assistance funds under false pretenses.

Officials at the Rocky Mount Police Department said that once the clip gained traction online, the store’s security team was able to verify the incident through in-store surveillance footage and confirm the woman’s identity.

“The individual was identified through both the viral video and store records,” a department spokesperson said. “Charges have been filed, and additional information will be released pending court proceedings.”

Food Lion’s Response

A spokesperson for Food Lion released a statement confirming that the woman involved had been identified and that the company is cooperating fully with local law enforcement.

“We take matters of fraud and theft seriously,” the spokesperson said. “Our team worked closely with authorities to review video evidence and ensure appropriate legal action was taken. We thank the community for bringing this situation to our attention.”

The store also emphasized that while isolated incidents like this are rare, loss prevention teams are trained to detect pricing and payment manipulation at checkout stations.

Public Reaction and Viral Backlash

Social media users reacted swiftly after the video circulated, criticizing the woman’s decision to film and post evidence of her own crime. Many online commenters called the situation “mind-boggling,” with several highlighting how common it has become for individuals to document illegal behavior for attention.

“People are literally posting their own crimes online. Wild,” one user wrote, echoing a sentiment shared by thousands of viewers.

Others expressed frustration over the misuse of EBT benefits, saying such acts undermine the purpose of assistance programs designed to help families in need.

“EBT is meant to feed people, not fund scams. This is why the system gets tighter for those who genuinely need it,” another person commented.

What Happens Next

Officials confirmed that the woman will face multiple misdemeanor charges related to retail theft and government benefit fraud. Under North Carolina law, EBT fraud can carry penalties including fines, probation, and potential jail time, depending on the monetary value of the items involved.

Authorities also noted that sharing the video online helped expedite the investigation. The footage provided clear visual evidence linking the suspect to the crime, which police said was instrumental in confirming her identity.

“This case serves as a reminder that anything shared publicly online can and will be used as evidence in court,” said an investigator familiar with the case.

Broader Concerns Over Social Media and Self-Incrimination

Law enforcement officials say this case is part of a growing trend in which people incriminate themselves online by filming and uploading illegal acts for attention or social media engagement. Police departments nationwide have seen an increase in self-posted evidence leading directly to arrests.

Experts warn that social media has created a dangerous feedback loop where users seek viral fame without realizing the legal consequences.

“We’re seeing a culture of oversharing, where people don’t realize that a few seconds of bragging can lead to months behind bars,” said a cybersecurity analyst.

The Rocky Mount Police Department says the case remains under review as prosecutors determine whether to pursue additional charges, including misuse of government funds.

What do you think — should filming yourself committing fraud result in harsher penalties, or does the embarrassment of going viral serve as its own punishment? Share your thoughts and join the discussion at NapervilleLocal.com.