Ohio Man Accused of $196K Social Security Theft

CLEVELAND, OH – A brazen scheme to siphon over $196,245 in Social Security payments has landed a Parma man and two Ohio-based companies in federal court, according to an indictment unsealed today. Kevin Philip Zeszut, 60, stands accused of directly stealing government funds, while Ohio Transport Corporation and William C. Hill, Jr., 59, of Liberty Township, are alleged to have aided and abetted the fraud.

The indictment, returned by a grand jury in the Northern District of Ohio, details a calculated effort to misappropriate funds. Zeszut is charged with one count of theft of government property. The feds say he “stole and converted to his own use” the Social Security payments and related benefits, essentially living off money he wasn’t entitled to.

But Zeszut didn’t act alone, prosecutors allege. William C. Hill, Jr., owner of Ohio Transport Corporation, based in Middletown, allegedly covered for Zeszut, falsely claiming he wasn’t an employee. The indictment states Hill knew Zeszut *was* a full-time employee, but was being paid under another person’s name and Social Security number – a clear attempt to conceal the illegal activity. Hill faces one count of aiding and abetting the theft, along with four counts of making false statements to investigators.

“The indictment further alleges that Hill made false statements to agency representatives,” stated a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Essentially, Hill allegedly lied to protect the scheme and keep the stolen funds flowing. Ohio Transport Corporation is also named in the indictment, charged with aiding and abetting the theft of government property. The company’s role is currently unclear, but the charges suggest they were complicit in the fraud.

United States Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach was quick to note that an indictment is not proof of guilt. “A defendant is entitled to a fair trial,” he said, “in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.” However, if convicted, the defendants face sentencing determined by the court, taking into account their criminal history (if any) and their specific roles in the crime. Statutory maximums will apply, though sentences typically fall below those limits.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Ian D. Hoffman and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phillip J. Tripi, building on the investigation led by agents of the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. This isn’t just about the money; it’s about protecting a system millions rely on. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves through the courts, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the streets to the courtroom.

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