LAFAYETTE, La. – Gary Blake Williamson, 71, of Cheneyville, Louisiana, is facing federal time after admitting to a long-running scheme to defraud the Social Security Administration. The Cheneyville man pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of theft of government property, a charge carrying a hefty potential sentence.
According to court documents, Williamson began collecting Social Security disability benefits in 2002, claiming total disability that prevented him from working. But the ruse didn’t last. In December 2007, Williamson took a job with a private company, earning a comfortable $2,500 to $3,000 per month. He continued to collect disability checks – essentially double-dipping at taxpayer expense – until May of 2012.
Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook didn’t mince words, stating that Williamson knowingly and intentionally violated the public trust. The scheme spanned over a decade, representing a significant drain on a system designed to help those genuinely in need. The guilty plea was entered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Patrick Hanna, and awaits final acceptance by U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr.
The feds aren’t playing around. Williamson now faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He’s also looking at a potential fine of $250,000. No sentencing date has been set, leaving Williamson in legal limbo.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, who uncovered the discrepancies in Williamson’s income and benefit claims. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth is leading the prosecution, determined to hold Williamson accountable for his actions.
This case serves as a stark reminder that defrauding the government isn’t a victimless crime. It’s a direct theft from American taxpayers, and those caught will face the full weight of federal law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves towards sentencing.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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