Avondale Man Sentenced For Theft of Social Security Funds

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JERRY CAMPBELL (“CAMPBELL”), age 60, of Avondale, Louisiana, was sentenced yesterday for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

According to documents filed in federal court, CAMPBELL’s sister was authorized to receive Social Security Administration (“SSA”) Title XVI Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) disability benefits up until her death, which occurred on November 8, 2013. An investigation by special agents with the SSA Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police revealed CAMPBELL was in possession of his late sister’s Chase Bank ATM card and began withdrawing money from her account after her death. CAMPBELL admitted to federal authorities on January 22, 2018, that he used his late sister’s ATM card to pay for his own personal expenses knowing he was not entitled to her Social Security benefits. CAMPBELL failed to notify the SSA of his sister’s death and took approximately $32,836.00 in SSI benefits from her account.

U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced CAMPBELL to three (3) years of probation and restitution to Social Security Administration for $32,836.00.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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