Wade’s $21,822 Child Support Debt Lands Him in Federal Hot Water

Child Support Scandal Rocks Anaheim

Richard A. Wade, 42, has been accused of failing to pay a staggering $21,822 in past due child support, a federal grand jury indictment revealed.

The indictment, handed down on July 6, 2011, alleges that Wade, a resident of Anaheim, California, has been dodging his child support obligations. His case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Wright.

Wade appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on July 16, 2013, and entered a not guilty plea to the indictment. His release on bond pending trial has left many wondering if he will finally face the music.

The maximum penalty for Wade’s alleged crimes is severe: up to 2 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both; 1 year of supervised release and 1 additional year of supervised release upon revocation; a $100 assessment fee to the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund; and child support restitution amount owing at the time of sentencing.

The investigation into Wade’s activities is being conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. A trial date has been set for September 24, 2013, and it remains to be seen if Wade will finally be held accountable for his alleged crimes.

The charge against Wade is merely an accusation, and he is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The people of Anaheim deserve to know that they are protected from individuals who would seek to avoid their child support obligations.

The case against Wade is a stark reminder that failure to pay child support will not be tolerated in this country. Those who ignore their responsibilities will be held accountable for their actions, and the law will be upheld.