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Safe Passage Worker Hit Woman, Stole Benefits Card: Authorities

(CBS) – A Safe Passage worker for Chicago Public Schools allegedly struck a woman and stole her Link benefits card, authorities say.

Lashia Brown, 22, has been charged with misdemeanor battery and felony ID theft.  Police confirmed Brown has a prior criminal record that includes possessing a weapon without a Firearm Owners Identification Card, an offense for which she pleaded guilty.

Brown allegedly struck the victim in the face and used her Link card to withdraw money. She was arrested Tuesday in the 3200 block of West Madison and ordered held on $10,000 bond.

A Link card provides cash and food-buying assistance for families that meet income guidelines.

A spokeswoman for the school system says officials are looking into the allegation.

"With the safety of our children a top priority, CPS takes these allegations very seriously and is working with the safe passage vendor on looking into these claims and will take appropriate action," the CPS representative said.

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