PITTSBURGH - An Armstrong County truck driver pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Billy Joe Toy, 44, of Worthington, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Terrence F. McVerry.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that Toy received Social Security disability insurance benefit payments based on his alleged inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity, and thereby caused $55,012 in disability payments to be paid on behalf of his minor child. At the same time, he was employed as a truck driver, and had his wages paid to his wife’s business in order to conceal their payment.
Judge McVerry scheduled sentencing for Dec. 11, 2015 at 10 a.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued defendant’s release on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Billy Joe Toy.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
