Kendra Graves, Student Aid Theft, Louisiana 2019

Kendra Graves, 31, Pleads Guilty to Stealing Federal Student Aid Funds and Identity Theft

A Laplace woman has pleaded guilty to theft of government funds and identity theft. Kendra Graves, age 31, was charged with two counts in connection with her scheme to defraud the federal government.

According to court documents, Graves falsified federal student loan applications and used the stolen student aid monies in the amount of $195,432 for her own personal use. The investigation found that Graves applied for federal financial aid at Delgado Community College in the name of 15 individuals without their knowledge or consent.

Graves faces a possible sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 as to Count 1 and 15 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000 as to Count 2. She also faces three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $200 special assessment fee. United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for June 26, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.

The case highlights the importance of protecting taxpayer dollars and preventing identity theft. It is a reminder that those who commit these crimes will be held accountable.

The investigation and prosecution of this case were the result of a collaborative effort between multiple federal agencies.

Graves' guilty plea is a significant step in bringing justice to the victims of her scheme.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/laplace-woman-pleads-guilty-stealing-federal-student-aid-funds-and-identity-theft