Title: American Samoan Woman Accused of Over $267,000 Welfare Fraud and Identity Theft
Background
- A 39-year-old woman from American Samoa, identified as Lauofo, stands accused of defrauding the government of over $267,000 in welfare benefits and identity theft (US Department of Justice).
Alleged Offenses
- Welfare Fraud: Lauofo applied for welfare benefits in American Samoa in 2011, representing that her husband did not reside with her family, and claimed assistance for food and income. Despite this, she allegedly continued to claim benefits every month until December 2018.
- Identity Theft: She is also accused of using the identities of minor children residing in American Samoa to receive additional welfare benefits.
Falsification of Documents
- To deceive authorities, Lauofo submitted falsified documents, including letters from doctors and landlords, purporting to show that her husband lived elsewhere.
Stolen Identities
- In 2015, Lauofo used the identities of two family members and an acquaintance to augment her welfare assistance, entitled to $47,000 but receiving over $220,000.
Financial Fraud
- Lauofo opened several bank and credit accounts using the stolen identities. A bank account was opened in the name of her ex-husband, three years after his death, netting about $10,000.
- She is also charged with stealing and depositing two checks, totaling over $3,000, into her own account during her work as a letter carrier.
Charges and Sentencing
- Lauofo faces several charges, including theft of public funds, making false statements, and identity theft.
- She is scheduled to be sentenced on April 17, 2023, before U.S District Judge Richard A. Jones in the Seattle Federal District Court.