ST. LOUIS – In a stunning revelation of white-collar deceit, Scott A. Taylor, 50, from Wellston, MO, has admitted to swindling $106,923 in Social Security disability benefits through a fraudulent scheme. The fossil recreator pleaded guilty to one felony count of theft of government money in U.S. District Court in St. Louis.
Taylor was granted disability benefits on September 5, 1996. He subsequently founded Taylor Made Fossils, a business specializing in the creation of cast or molded fossil recreations. Despite all business paperwork being in his girlfriend’s name, Taylor was the silent partner overseeing the operations. From 2014 onwards, the enterprise generated monthly income ranging from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, save for three months.
On October 1, 2023, Taylor submitted a fraudulent continuing disability review report, falsely claiming he struggled with walking, standing, concentrating, and even feeding himself. He exaggerated his vision problems, claiming it caused him frequent falls and extreme pain, making it dangerous to leave the house alone. Meanwhile, Taylor was carrying heavy objects, engaging in yard work, and using his phone without assistance.
Later that month, he falsely declared no wages or income since 1997. On November 1, he reaffirmed his false claims in a function report. Following an SSA-OIG investigation, Taylor’s benefits were discontinued. His theft of $106,923 has been confirmed, as stated in his plea agreement.
Scheduled for sentencing on December 9, Taylor faces up to 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. He will also be compelled to repay the embezzled funds. The SSA-OIG investigated the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwen Carroll prosecuting it.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths some individuals will go to exploit government benefits systems for personal gain. As St. Louis County and beyond grapple with such scams, the pursuit of justice continues.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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