GREENSBURG WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FEDERAL PROGRAM THEFT

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Beverly Watson McNabb, age 62, of Greensburg, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to theft of government funds. McNabb’s federal program theft conviction is punishable by a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made during her plea, the United States Social Security Administration (“SSA”) deposited retirement benefits via direct deposit to McNabb’s elderly family member, known as R.W., into his commercial bank account, which account McNabb had access.

R.W. passed away on or about December 5, 2015. From December 5, 2015, until at least April 07, 2020, McNabb stole R.W.’s SSA benefits that she knew she was not entitled to use. For approximately five years, McNabb used the stolen funds to purchase a wedding dress, as well as other personal items from a variety of sources, such as restaurants, supermarkets, and prison commissary for friends. McNabb also made numerous cash withdrawals directly from the bank account for other personal purchases. In total, McNabb stole approximately $50,000 in federal program benefits.

This matter is being investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief.