Fingers Point to Social Security Fraud’s Root in Outdated Record-Keeping By Administration

The Office of the Inspector General recently recommended some ways for the Social Security Administration to prevent disability fraud, such as the massive scandal involving numerous former emergency workers in New York City. However, the SSA has not, so far, adopted the measures, including updating its ancient record-keeping strategy.

“The Inspector General’s report confirms what I have always known – that Social Security has failed to make fighting fraud a top priority,” said Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Sam Johnson (R-TX).

“Many changes, like improving computer system screening, could stop fraudsters when they walk in the door. This is but one simple and commonsense solution to prevent the fleecing of the system and hard-working taxpayers,” added Johnson.

The OIG’s report stated that the “SSA has consistently promoted its increased anti-fraud efforts in the past year, but these efforts do not go far enough to address the fact that the Agency’s outdated and unintegrated systems and policies have not be able to prevent or easily identify wide-spread fraud schemes” and that “…major fraud vulnerabilities still exist and must be addressed with broad system enhancements and significant policy changes.”

Because the Social Security Administration relies on handwritten records, according to the report, there is no effective way to screen, automatically, for Social Security fraud. With the help of computer databases, specific doctors’ records could be examined for large numbers of approved cases, which is one major indicator of disability fraud.

“The agency’s outdated and unintegrated systems and policies have not been able to prevent or easily identify widespread fraud schemes,” investigators concluded.

“It is regrettable that people will try to take advantage of Social Security programs; however, that is the reality. Thus, all Social Security employees receive comprehensive and extensive training on fraud detection,” the agency said.

Over 100 suspects involved in the massive NYC-based disability fraud are going to trial, and on Friday, September 12th, one of the alleged ringleaders pleaded guilty to the Social Security fraud charges. John Minerva, 62, pleaded guilty to grand larceny and conspiracy charges, in exchange for a minimum three years in prison after he cooperates with investigators. Minerva was a former leader of the detectives’ union.

On Wednesday, August 27th, the main defendant in a massive Social Security Disability fraud scam pleaded guilty to charges for defrauding the US government. Joseph Esposito, 70, pleaded guilty to one count of grand larceny in the first degree for his leadership role in a Social Security Disability fraud scam that has reportedly been running since 1988. He also agreed to repay $750,000 in restitution.

The Strom Law Firm Can Help with Social Security Disability Claims

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance can be complex. However, we understand that you need your benefits and we will put our years of experience to work for you to ensure that you have the representation necessary to actively pursue your claim.  Call the attorneys at the Strom Law Firm today to discuss your Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income case today.  We will be glad to discuss any questions you may have during our free, confidential consultation.  Call the experienced attorneys at the Strom Law Firm at (803)252-4800.