Local Man Pleads Guilty To Theft Of Government Funds

St. Louis, MO – MICHAEL LEON ADKINS, SR. pled guilty to theft of government funds in connection with a scheme to obtain housing benefits through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) between 2009 and 2014.

According to the plea agreement, Adkins abused HUD subsidized housing programs in two ways: 1) by "renting" his own house to his wife who accepted housing benefits from HUD and 2) by fraudulently seeking and accepting HUD benefits for a separate apartment he occupied.  Adkins admitted to failing to report the government funds he received as his wife’s "landlord" while applying for benefits as a tenant.  Adkins was able to conceal the funds he received as a landlord by placing his home in the name of his son.  In all, Adkins admitted his scheme netted him more than $30,000 in funds intended for the indigent.

Adkins, St. Louis, Missouri, pled guilty to one count of theft of government funds before U.S. District Judge E. Richard Webber.  Sentencing has been set for June 5, 2015.

This charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $250,000. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

The case was investigated by the HUD Office of the Inspector General.  Assistant United States Attorney Tom Albus is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.