A New Bedford man, Joseph Smith, 71, has admitted to a significant crime involving the theft of over $450,000 in disability benefits. These funds were intended for a Marine Corps veteran who served our country for two decades and was battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a severe progressive neurological disease. Smith’s guilty plea to charges of theft and conspiracy to steal government benefits was entered before U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick, with sentencing set for January 15, 2025.

The case came to light after it was discovered that Smith had been intercepting monthly disability checks from the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). These checks were meant for the veteran following his ALS diagnosis in August 2015. The VBA had approved the veteran’s application for benefits and started issuing payments of about $8,318 per month starting in September 2015. However, these payments were sent to the veteran’s previous address in New Bedford, where a relative of Smith lived.

From around 2015 to 2020, while the veteran was hospitalized due to his condition, Smith, along with accomplices, diverted these funds by depositing them into bank accounts under their control. Initially, Smith deposited the checks into his account before moving on to an account fraudulently opened in the veteran’s name. The stolen funds were then quickly withdrawn as cash and used for personal expenses.

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy condemned Smith’s actions as “a gross betrayal” against veterans who have sacrificed so much for our nation’s safety and freedom. He stressed that such crimes are not only immoral but an affront to every American who values the service and sacrifice of our military personnel.

This case also underscores the collaborative efforts between various law enforcement agencies dedicated to protecting veterans from financial crimes. Ketty Larco-Ward from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service emphasized their commitment to investigating fraudulent activities targeting veterans. Special Agent in Charge Christopher Algieri from the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General highlighted their ongoing mission to hold individuals accountable for stealing benefits meant for disabled veterans.

Furthermore, Michelle L. Anderson from the Social Security Administration expressed her office’s dedication towards safeguarding taxpayers’ funds from fraudsters aiming at federal programs.

Smith faces up to ten years in prison for theft of government benefits and an additional five years for conspiracy charges, alongside potential fines reaching up to $250,000 or twice the amount fraudulently obtained—whichever is greater.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

This guilty plea sends a strong message about the seriousness with which crimes against veterans are regarded by law enforcement and judicial authorities alike.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin A. Saltzman is leading prosecution efforts in this case, which has brought justice one step closer for those who’ve served our country only to be exploited during their time of need.

What measures can be put in place to prevent similar financial crimes against veterans in the future?

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10