Related Federal Cases
- Heather R. King, Theft of Government Funds, Idaho 2024 · Texas
- Kyle Eugene Goddard, Firearms Theft, Idaho 2023 · Oregon
- Two Foreign Nationals, ID Theft Scheme, Los Angeles CA, 2023 · California
- Yerfri Castillo, ID Theft Tax Scam, NY, 2023 · Illinois
- Terry L. Gantt, ID Theft and Wire Fraud, Cedar Rapids IA, 2012 · Illinois
Local Woman’s Despicable Act Exposed
Wendy K. Banks, 55, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, has pleaded guilty to a heinous crime that has left many in the community shocked and outraged. According to court documents, Banks stole $29,600.20 of her deceased mother’s monthly social security benefits between June 2009 and January 2014.
After her mother’s passing, Banks maintained the joint bank account she shared with her mother. Using her cunning and deceit, she forged her mother’s signature or wrote ‘for deposit’ on the social security checks and deposited them in the joint account, eventually changing the checks to direct deposit in the joint account.
The charge of theft of government funds is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Banks’ actions have left her facing a maximum of 10 years behind bars and a hefty fine.
Banks’ scheme was uncovered by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, who launched an investigation into the matter. The case was prosecuted by a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney as part of a partnership venture between the Social Security Administration Office of General Counsel and the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute social security fraud.
Sentencing is set for June 23, 2015, in Pocatello before Chief U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill. The community is waiting with bated breath to see what sentence will be handed down to Banks.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson said, ‘Theft of government funds is a serious crime that will not be tolerated.’ Banks’ actions have served as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting public benefits and holding those who abuse the system accountable.
Banks’ case is a stark reminder that crime can happen anywhere, and that the consequences can be severe. As a community, we must remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Key Facts
- State: Idaho
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
ðŸâ€â€™ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News