A man from Oklahoma, aged 43, has received a two-year prison sentence in a federal case. He confessed to committing identity theft by using his deceased friend’s identity and unlawfully obtaining government benefits.
Terry Ross Killion, a resident of Grove, committed aggravated identity theft by exploiting the personal information of his deceased friend, Kelly Davis. Killion used Davis’s details to establish accounts and redirect Social Security payments for his own financial advantage.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma has announced the sentencing of Killion. As part of the sentencing, Killion has been ordered to pay $116,763 in restitution.
Court records indicate that Davis passed away in 2019. Following his death, Killion took on his identity.
Killion was found to have utilized Davis’s personal information in order to fabricate false financial accounts, enabling him to unlawfully obtain federal benefits that were originally meant for Davis.
The authorities eventually uncovered the deception, which led to Killion’s arrest and subsequent conviction.
U.S. Attorney Clinton Johnson emphasized the severity of identity theft, especially when it involves exploiting the deceased for financial gain. Johnson stated, “Identity theft is a serious crime, and when it involves exploiting a deceased individual for financial gain, it becomes particularly egregious.”
Law enforcement’s commitment to pursuing justice and ensuring that individuals are held accountable for their fraudulent actions is exemplified by this case.
Prosecutors highlighted the intentional nature of Killion’s offense, stating that he knowingly and consistently employed Davis’s identity for an extended duration.
They also highlighted that his actions not only deceived the government but also disrespected the memory of his friend.
Killion has been sentenced in federal court and will be serving a two-year prison term, along with the responsibility of repaying the stolen funds.
Authorities have not revealed whether they have considered pressing additional charges or if there were any other individuals involved in the scheme.
The Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Justice conducted a thorough investigation into the case involving multiple agencies.
Authorities are encouraging individuals to stay vigilant in safeguarding their personal information and to promptly report any suspected cases of identity theft.
Killion will start serving his sentence right away.
Federal officials are aiming to use this case as a deterrent for other fraudulent activities and to emphasize their dedication to prosecuting individuals who take advantage of the deceased’s identities for financial gain.
