Related Federal Cases
- Michaelle Martinez, Theft of Government Funds, LA, 2023 · Texas
- Ricardo Miguel Mayo, Theft of Government Money, FL 2024 · Florida
- Bob G. Dean Jr., Neglect of Nursing Home Residents, Louisiana, 2023 · Texas
- Angel Lara-Merida, Identity Theft, Kenner LA, 2023 · Alabama
- Janet Smith, Mail Fraud, Louisiana, 2023 · Louisiana
New Orleans Man Indicted for Theft of Social Security Disability Funds
A 29-year-old man from New Orleans has been accused of stealing nearly $20,000 in Social Security Disability Funds. Elijah Charles Sorina was indicted by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, Sorina continued to receive Social Security Administration (SSA) disability benefits after he claimed he was disabled and unable to work. Federal special agents determined Sorina began working for a local transportation company as a school bus driver in 2014 after he obtained a Commercial Driver’s license.
The SSA determined that from May 2014 until August 2016, Sorina received benefits of $19,897.00 to which he was not entitled because he concealed his employment from the SSA. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Sorina faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available at this time. Sorina’s next court appearance has not been scheduled yet.
This case highlights the importance of preventing and detecting government benefit fraud. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office or the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.
U.S. Attorney Evans emphasized that the indictment is not a conviction, and Sorina is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those who commit government benefit fraud are held accountable for their actions.
As the investigation continues, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will provide updates on this case. In the meantime, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News