In the past decade, the number of
prosecutions for stealing from disabled veterans has doubled in Texas. These crimes vary in severity – ranging from
$5,000 stolen up to $2 million.
For example, Waco optometrist
David Fran took $126,250 from a disabled veteran in order to build up his own
private business. Similarly, a Texas man
and his wife allegedly stole $2 million from two dozen veterans in a pending
case described as the largest rip-off ever reported in the VA fiduciary
program.
Perhaps even more heartbreaking
are the stories of theft when the fiduciary is a family member. Rose Avila stole $180,000 from her veteran
brother over a period of five years, all the while telling him his VA benefits
were “being saved.”
Part of the problem is a lack of
oversight. In fact, some of the
VA-appointed fiduciaries even have criminal records, but were still
approved. The VA has set up a new system
to improve background checks and monitoring of fiduciary activities. Unfortunately, with 96,000 fiduciaries
assisting veterans nationwide, reports of theft still remain rare.
In an effort to deter this
fraudulent conduct, Texas prosecutors are pursuing even small-time family
scams.
We here at Legal Help for
Veterans, PLLC, hear from veterans about fiduciary abuse. At times, we are able to intervene. VA needs a better monitoring system and a
timely dispute resolution system when veterans complain.
To learn more or see the original
article, please visit:
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Disabled-veterans-in-Texas-fleeced-by-3571559.php#page-1
If you have questions
on VA disability claims or fiduciary abuse, contact Legal Help for Veterans,
PLLC at 800-693-4800.
No comments:
Post a Comment