Billings Man Gets 3 Years Probation For Taking Dead Moms Benefits

A 62-year-old Billings Man pleaded guilty back in October 2022 to the theft of government property and was sentenced today.

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U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen sentenced Orin Raymond Champlin III to 3 years of probation and to pay full restitution to the total of $100,986.

The benefits, both federal and private, belonged to his deceased mother. Champlin's mother died back in June 2016. Rather than reporting to authorities and the government that his mother had died, Champlin continued to receive government benefits from the Social Security Administration and the Federal Employees Office of Personnel Management, and a private annuity payment from MetLife for almost 4 years.

Over the years, Champlin spent the money on his own personal needs, such as insurance for cars and daily expenses. In total, over $100,000 was spent.

Other Information:

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Social Security Administration and Office of Personnel Management Office of Inspector General.

If you know someone who could be the victim of this crime or other scams, check out the amazing resources by AARP and their Fraud Watch Network below.

Theft of benefits from the deceased has become a more popular method of theft in the modern era, as it has become far easier to receive funds from the government, and apply for them even on behalf of the elderly.

Source: Justice.Gov