Paul Hebert Pleads Guilty to Social Security and Medicaid Fraud

Paul Hebert, 50, of Gloucester, Massachusetts, formerly of Barre, Vermont, pleaded guilty today to charges of Social Security fraud and Medicaid fraud.

At today’s hearing, Hebert admitted that he made multiple false statements concerning his ability to work when he testified under oath at a Social Security Administration hearing on October 28, 2010; he failed to disclose changes in his income after the hearing as required by law; and he wrongfully continued to receive Social Security Income benefits until April 4, 2013. Hebert also admitted that, after obtaining Medicaid benefits on February 24, 2009, he failed to report changes in his income and employment status, as required by law, and wrongfully received Medicaid benefits until approximately November 2012.

At sentencing, Hebert faces up to five years imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000 on each count. The actual sentence will be determined through reference to federal sentencing guidelines and applicable statutes. According to the plea agreement, defendant Hebert has agreed to pay restitution totaling $53,660.57 prior to his sentencing hearing, and both the United States and defendant Hebert are jointly recommending that Hebert be sentenced to four years of probation. Such a recommendation is not binding on the Court at sentencing.

United States Attorney Eric S. Miller commended the efforts of the SSA Office of Inspector General, Boston Field Division; HHS Office of the Inspector General, Boston Regional Office; and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration, Office of Law Enforcement, in the investigation and prosecution of Hebert.

Hebert is represented by Paul S. Volk, Esq. The prosecutor is Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ophardt.