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A 76-year-old Bradford County man has been sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay over $350,000 in restitution for perpetrating a wire fraud scheme involving his deceased mother’s government benefits. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the sentencing yesterday by Chief United States District Judge Matthew W. Brann.
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According to United States Attorney Brian D. Miller, Richard Burke engaged in this fraudulent activity for approximately 17 years, beginning in April 2005 and continuing until March 7, 2022. During this extensive period, Burke illicitly withdrew a total of $350,634.23 from his mother’s bank account. These funds were comprised of her Social Security Retirement, Survivors and Disability (RSDI) benefits and Veterans Affairs death pension benefit payments. Burke’s mother passed away in 2005, and at no point was any other individual entitled to these benefits designated for her.
The scheme involved Burke utilizing his deceased mother’s bank card to systematically withdraw cash following the deposits of her benefits. A critical element of the fraud was Burke’s failure to notify the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) of his mother’s death. This sustained lack of reporting allowed the benefits to continue being deposited into her account, from which Burke then accessed them. The investigation into this matter was conducted by the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin Zenzinger.
This case highlights the potential consequences for individuals who engage in benefit fraud. While Mr. Burke will serve a period of probation, the significant restitution ordered underscores the seriousness with which these crimes are treated. Residents who are beneficiaries of government programs or are responsible for managing the finances of deceased individuals should be aware of their obligations to report changes in status promptly to relevant agencies to avoid potential legal repercussions.
Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania
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