Former DHH worker accused of identity theft; hundreds of clients could be compromised

A former Department of Health and Human Service worker is behind bars accused of identity theft.

After receiving multiple identity theft related complaints, the Titus County Sheriff's Office initiated an investigation.
Authorities say their efforts led them to Selena Patino of Mount Pleasant.

According to investigators, Patino had assumed the identity of clients receiving immunizations and other services at the Texas Department of Health and Human Services on N. Jefferson in Mt. Pleasant.

Authorities say Patino used client information and applied for credit cards online and when approved made as many purchases as the credit card would allow.

Patino, 38, is charged with Fraudulent Use or Possession of Identifying information, a 2nd Degree Felony and Credit Card Abuse, a State Jail Felony. Some of the property that Selena Patino purchased with the credit cards was recovered along with stolen credit cards, immunization records and other documents with clients name (or family members name) and social security number were found.

The list of individuals that had their information stolen is steadily growing and authorities believe hundreds may be impacted.

If you have used the services of the office of the Texas Department of Health and Human Services in Mount Pleasant in the past few months authorities urge you to check your credit report.

Authorities plan to contact the Texas Department of Health with a list of clients that have had their identity compromised.