Jason L. Wentworth, Social Security Fraud, New York 2023

A shocking case of Social Security fraud has come to light in Oneonta, New York. Jason L. Wentworth, a 35-year-old man from the city, has been sentenced to five years of probation for stealing Social Security survivors benefits and making false statements to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

According to the indictment, Wentworth applied for and received survivors benefits on his son's and his own behalf after his wife's death. However, he continued to receive and keep those benefits even after his son's maternal grandparents took over as his primary caregivers, to which he was not entitled.

The SSA Office of the Inspector General investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily C. Powers prosecuted the charges. Senior United States District Judge Thomas J. McAvoy presided over the case and handed down the sentence.

The indictment charged Wentworth with six counts, including three counts of theft of government property, one count of representative payee fraud, and two counts of making false statements in connection with his theft of Social Security benefits. Wentworth pled guilty to these charges on August 21, 2019.

As a result of the sentence, Wentworth must pay restitution to the government in the amount of $27,525 and restitution to his son in the amount of $25,035. He must also forfeit $3,822.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and accountability in government programs. Social Security benefits are meant to support those in need, not to be exploited for personal gain.

Defendant: Jason L. Wentworth

Criminal Charges: Three counts of theft of government property, one count of representative payee fraud, and two counts of making false statements

City and State: Oneonta, New York

Exact Date: January 2, 2024 (sentencing), August 21, 2019 (plea)

Sentence: Five years of probation

Dollar Amounts: $27,525 (restitution to the government), $25,035 (restitution to his son), $3,822 (forfeiture)

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/oneonta-man-sentenced-social-security-fraud