Man charged with $360k Social Security fraud

A man from Georgia, Timmy S. Stephens, collected $360,000 in disability benefits over 20 years while ignoring warnings from the Social Security Administration (SSA). He began receiving these benefits in August 2002 due to a heart condition. However, by January 2003, he returned to work at a funeral home without informing the SSA. Stephens hid his income by having it reported under a relative's Social Security number. For two decades, he cashed his disability checks despite being able to work. The SSA tried to contact him multiple times, urging him to report any employment or changes in his health, but he ignored them. Eventually, the SSA began investigating him for fraud. When questioned by federal agents, Stephens continued to deny working since 2001, even submitting fake time sheets to support his claim. His fraudulent activity was uncovered, leading to his arrest. In October 2024, Stephens pleaded guilty to stealing benefits intended for those truly unable to work. In March 2025, he was sentenced to nine months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a fine of $5,500 and $126,560 in restitution. The case has highlighted the importance of the disability program, which supports those truly in need.