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Muskogee Resident Pleads Guilty to Stealing Social Security Funds
A shocking case of theft has come to light in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where 76-year-old Laura Virginia Howard has pleaded guilty to stealing Social Security funds. The guilty plea was accepted by the Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
According to the Information, Howard willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, and converted for her own use and the use of others, money and things of value exceeding $1,000.00 of the United States and the Social Security Administration paid to a retirement claimant, to which Howard knew she was not entitled. The theft occurred between February 28, 2007, and June 26, 2024.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration—Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Satter, Kara Traster, and Jonathan Soverly represented the United States in this case.
Howard faces up to ten years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine for her crime. A U.S. District Court Judge will determine the sentence to be imposed after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Social Security Administration—Office of the Inspector General lauded the efforts of the investigators involved in this case, stating that their tireless work led to the recovery of social security benefits that were intended for vulnerable citizens.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding taxpayer dollars and ensuring that those who abuse the system are held accountable. As the investigation continues, the public can only wonder how many more cases of social security theft remain hidden in the shadows.
For more information, contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma at [insert contact information].
Key Facts
- State: Oklahoma
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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