Loraleigh Helen Barber, Theft of Government Property, Pennsylvania 2023

Erie woman Loraleigh Helen Barber, 51, has been sentenced to 12 months and one day in jail along with ordered restitution in the amount of $127,636 for her conviction of theft of government property. The sentence was imposed by United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter in federal court.

According to information presented to the court, Loraleigh Helen Barber received $127,636 in Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefits from the United States Social Security Administration between January 1, 2007 through August 2, 2019. Barber had served as a representative payee for her father and after he died in December of 2006, however she never advised the Social Security Administration and kept on receiving and spending the benefits intended for her father.

Prosecutors claim Barber was aware she was not entitled to the benefits, yet continued to receive and use them over the course of 12 years. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul S. Sellers on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung commended the United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Loraleigh Helen Barber.

The investigation was carried out by the United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. This case is a reminder that those who commit crimes, especially those involving government property, will be held accountable.

Loraleigh Helen Barber of Erie, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court to 12 months and one day in jail and ordered to make restitution in the amount of $127,636 on her conviction of theft of government property. The case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of honesty and integrity when dealing with government programs and benefits.

Barber’s sentence will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider committing similar crimes. The United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General will continue to work tirelessly to protect the integrity of government programs and ensure that those who abuse the system are held accountable.

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