IRA ROBERT SCHILLING, Disaster Benefits Fraud, Oklahoma 2013

Disaster Benefits Scam Rocks Moore

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – In a shocking turn of events, a former Moore resident has been charged with disaster benefits fraud after allegedly seeking benefits following the devastating May 2013 tornado that ravaged Cleveland County.

IRA ROBERT SCHILLING, 42, a former resident of Moore, Oklahoma, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for committing disaster benefits fraud and making false statements in connection with a claim for benefits following the May 2013 tornadoes in Moore.

According to the indictment, on June 16, 2013, Schilling signed a Department of Air Force memorandum requesting evacuation allowances and benefits on behalf of his dependents. In that memorandum, it is alleged, Schilling certified that after a May 20, 2013, storm he evacuated from a home in Moore, Oklahoma, and that he and two of his dependents were residing at the Safe Haven location in Norman, Oklahoma.

Specifically, it is alleged that Schilling falsely submitted a travel voucher to the Air Force for costs associated with his relocation from Moore to Norman when he knew that no such costs had been incurred for a dependent-associated relocation. In addition, it is alleged that Schilling sent an email to the Air Force falsely claiming entitlement to extended Safe Haven benefits, including per diem payments, when he knew that he was not entitled to receive those benefits.

If convicted, Schilling faces up to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and payment of restitution. The public is reminded that the indictment is merely an accusation and that the defendant is each presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Reference is made to the indictment for further information.

This case is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Air Force Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale.

Mandatory Facts: Defendant IRA ROBERT SCHILLING, Criminal Charges: Disaster Benefits Fraud, City and State: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Exact Date: June 16, 2013, Sentence: Up to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and payment of restitution.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/former-moore-resident-who-sought-benefits-following-may-tornado-charged-disaster