Judges Sentences Man To Probation For Stealing His Deceased Mother-in-Law's Social Security Benefits

PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh resident was sentenced in federal court to five years probation on his conviction of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Senior United States District Court Judge Donetta W. Ambrose imposed sentence upon Melvin P. McMillan, 67.

According to information presented to the court, McMillan received and used the Social Security Title II benefits that continued to be issued to his mother-in-law, Pauline Kasenic, after her death on Oct. 24, 1994. From November 3, 1994 to June 1, 2012, McMillan received $224,370.00 in Social Security Administration funds to which benefits he knew he was not entitled.

Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ambrose took into consideration the defendant's lack of criminal history, his acceptance of responsibility and his military service.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

U.S. Attorney Hickton commended the Special Agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, who conducted the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of McMillan.