Florence Woman Sentenced for Defrauding Farm Assistance Program
A Florence woman was sentenced to 27 months in prison for her role in defrauding the Farm Service Agency’s disaster relief program. Roselyn Goodrum, age 47, was found guilty of Conspiracy, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, and ordered to pay over $146,000 in restitution to the federal government.
According to the United States Attorney, Roselyn Goodrum was in charge of the Farm Service Agency’s Florence office from 2006 through 2014. In February 2014, Ice Storm Pax caused extensive damage to farms in the Pee Dee, and farmers could make claims to the FSA for financial assistance to clean up their land. Goodrum filed multiple false applications in the names of family members who were not entitled to these benefits, enriching herself and others.
After FSA employees discovered the theft and suspended her, Goodrum surreptitiously re-entered the office and shredded incriminating documents. Overall, she illegally obtained $146,401 that she was not entitled to in fraudulent benefits.
Goodrum pled guilty to the charges on September 1, 2016. United States District Judge R. Bryan Harwell of Florence presided over the hearing.
The case was investigated by agents of the United States Department of Agriculture and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Winston Holliday, Jr.
The sentencing is a significant blow to those who would seek to defraud government programs meant to help those in need. It serves as a reminder that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable.
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Key Facts
- State: South Carolina
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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