Bernard M. Dospoy, Social Security Benefits Theft, Pennsylvania 2017

Bernard M. Dospoy, a 66-year-old man from Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty to stealing over $200,000 in Social Security benefits. The scheme, which spanned over a decade, saw Dospoy receiving and converting 176 separate Social Security Administration benefit payments to which he was not entitled.

According to court documents, from June 2005 to October 2015, Dospoy received a total of $207,592 in Social Security benefits. He has agreed to pay restitution of the same amount, as per a related Civil Settlement Agreement entered into with the United States.

The investigation that led to Dospoy’s prosecution was conducted by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Valkovci, Jr. is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin J. Callahan is litigating it on behalf of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.

U.S. District Judge Kim R. Gibson has scheduled Dospoy’s sentencing for August 3, 2017, at 1:00 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. The actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Dospoy’s crime is a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in the distribution of Social Security benefits. His actions not only cheated the system but also put a strain on the social safety net, which is designed to support those in genuine need.

The case serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit the system for personal gain. It also highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors who work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

As the investigation and prosecution of Dospoy’s case continues, one thing is clear: those who engage in such crimes will be held accountable for their actions.

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