New Orleans Man Indicted for Theft of Social Security Disability Funds

ELIJAH CHARLES SORINA (“SORINA”), age 29, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, SORINA continued to receive Social Security Administration (“SSA”) disability benefits after he claimed he was disabled and unable to work.  Federal special agents determined SORINA began working for a local transportation company as a school bus driver in 2014 after he obtained a Commercial Driver’s license.  SSA determined that from May 2014 until August 2016, SORINA received benefits of $19,897.00 to which he was not entitled because he concealed his employment from the SSA.           

U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, SORINA faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine.                      

U.S. Attorney Evans 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 Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.