PITTSBURGH - One resident of Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Social Security fraud, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Michael T. Onder, 53, of Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from in and around July 2010 and continuing thereafter to in and around February 2016, Onder was the representative payee designated to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits totaling $30,854.68 for the use and benefit of another person, but instead knowingly and willfully converted the benefits for his own use.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for February 7, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Charles A. Eberle 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 Michael T. Onder.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
