A Kansas woman was convicted of felony misappropriation after stealing approximately $49,000 in veterans benefits intended for her father, according to a July 31 announcement from the U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas.
According to court documents, Lucretia Miller, 53, of Topeka pleaded guilty to one count of misappropriation by fiduciary and was sentenced by a federal judge to five years of probation. From October 2020 through April 2022, Miller served as fiduciary for her father, who was unable to manage his financial affairs. Without authorization, she took funds he received from the Department of Veterans Affairs as part of his disability compensation and used them for personal expenses.
U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser said, “After men and women serve our country, one way our nation serves them is by providing VA benefits in their time of need. Because Ms. Miller’s relative needed assistance, she was assigned to look after his finances. She lined her own pockets instead of using the funds for their sole intended purpose, which is for the care of her father.”
Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Central Field Office said, “VA benefits are earned through service, and anyone who exploits a veteran’s trust or steals those funds will be held accountable. The VA OIG is committed to protecting benefits intended for veterans.” The Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Investigation investigated the case.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas advances justice and community wellness through federal law enforcement and public education efforts; enforces federal laws against terrorism and crime; covers areas such as Kansas City, Wichita and Lawrence; collaborates with Project Safe Neighborhoods; provides victim support services; and operates as a federal office within the U.S. Department of Justice, according to its official website.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Debenham prosecuted this case.