Orlando, Florida – In a shocking case of government benefits theft, Lisa Browne, a 47-year-old resident of St. Cloud, Florida, has been sentenced to five months in federal prison for stealing over $134,000 in Social Security and Veterans benefits.
According to court documents, Browne’s grandfather, C.Z., was receiving Social Security Retirement Insurance Benefits and VA disability benefits. However, his death on or about February 2, 2014, was never reported to either the SSA or the VA, and as a result, the SSA and VA continued to make benefit payments to C.Z. for over four years.
Browne, who had access to the funds, knowingly and willfully stole or converted approximately $68,319 in SSA benefits and $66,693.48 in VA benefits to which she was not entitled. The total amount of stolen benefits is a staggering $134,012.48.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.
Browne pleaded guilty to the charges on March 21, 2019, and was sentenced to five months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. As part of her sentence, the court also ordered Browne to pay restitution in the amount of $68,319 to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and $66,693.48 to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA).
The sentencing marks a significant victory for the government in its efforts to combat government benefits theft. The case serves as a reminder that those who abuse the system will be held accountable.
Defendant: Lisa Browne
Criminal Charges: Theft of Government Property
City and State: Orlando, Florida
Exact Date: February 2, 2014 (crime date)
Sentence: Five months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release
Dollar Amount: $134,012.48 (total amount of stolen benefits)
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News