Grimy Times has learned that Sophia Beltz, 55, of Philadelphia, PA, will spend the next nine months in prison for her brazen scheme to steal her dead father’s Social Security benefits.
According to court documents, Beltz carried out the fraud for over 15 years, collecting 180 checks totaling $172,133 in Social Security Administration Retirement Insurance Benefits that were intended for her father, who passed away in February 1997.
The scheme was uncovered in August 2012, and Beltz subsequently pleaded guilty on April 30, 2013. U.S. District Court Judge Legrome D. Davis noted that Beltz’s actions were egregious, given the length of time she carried out the fraud.
The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, and was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Reinitz.
Beltz must also pay restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $172,133 and serve three years of supervised release following her prison term.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing and detecting Social Security benefit fraud. It is a reminder that those who abuse the system will be held accountable.
Sophia Beltz, 55, Defendant/Respondent
Exact Criminal Charges: Theft of Social Security Administration Retirement Insurance Benefits
City and State: Philadelphia, PA
Exact Date: August 2012 (discovery of scheme), April 30, 2013 (guilty plea)
Sentence or Outcome: Nine months in prison, restitution of $172,133, three years of supervised release
Dollar Amounts: $172,133 (total amount stolen), 180 (fraudulently collected checks)
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: White Collar Crime|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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