Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York | Department of Justice
Leah Mathieu, a correction officer with the New York City Department of Correction and a member of the United States Navy Reserve and New York Naval Militia, pled guilty on Apr. 9 to defrauding the Department of Correction by falsely claiming tens of thousands of dollars in military leave pay. The plea was entered before U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald.
The case highlights concerns about the misuse of public funds and the integrity expected from public servants. Authorities say such fraudulent acts undermine trust in government employees and can have financial impacts on city resources.
Jay Clayton, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, said, "As admitted, Leah Mathieu used forged documents to collect tens of thousands of dollars in military leave pay she had not earned. That money came from New Yorkers’ pockets. New Yorkers expect those who serve them to follow the rules on all pay—regular wages, overtime, leave pay, etc.—and when there is cheating, New Yorkers want justice."
Christopher Ryan, Acting Commissioner for the Department of Investigation (DOI), said: "Falsifying military leave to obtain City pay is a crime and undermines the service members who rightfully earn those benefits. As charged, this Correction Officer betrayed the trust granted in her by the City and the New York State Naval Militia. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York for their continued partnership and commitment to protect City funds." According to prosecutors, Mathieu repeatedly submitted false representations and forged documentation—including purported military orders—to claim she was on state active duty with the Naval Militia between December 2022 through March 2024. This resulted in her fraudulently obtaining approximately $80,297.90 in military leave pay.
Mathieu pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison as prescribed by Congress; sentencing will be determined by Judge Buchwald at a hearing scheduled for August 27.
U.S. Attorney Clayton praised investigative work conducted by DOI along with several federal agencies involved in uncovering these actions.
The broader implications underscore ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to safeguard city finances against fraud within municipal departments.
