Wanblee Mom Sentenced for Fraudulent Statements

FRAUD CASE: Wanblee Woman Sentenced for False Statements

In a stunning revelation from Rapid City, South Dakota, Talana Francine Standing Bear, also known as Talana Francine Sitting Up, has been sentenced for making fraudulent statements. The 40-year-old resident of Wanblee was found guilty and sentenced on January 30, 2023.

Standing Bear received a sentence of time already served, followed by 2 years of supervised release. She must also pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund and restitution of $14,241.65.

The charges stemmed from Standing Bear’s false statements on documentation concerning her minor child’s Social Security disability income. Her deceitful actions resulted in her receiving $13,695.65 in Title XVI Supplemental Security Income and an additional $546 under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Instead of using these funds for her child’s benefit, she utilized them for personal gain.

Standing Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2021 and pleaded guilty on July 20, 2022. The investigation was conducted by the Office of the Inspector General – Social Security Administration, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Sazama handling the prosecution.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who commit fraud against vulnerable populations, especially children. As South Dakota grapples with such cases, the community can take solace in the justice served to Standing Bear and the measures taken to protect future victims.