Deltona, FL - A Deltona man is facing up to 20 years in a federal prison after being found guilty earlier this week on two counts of theft of government funds. Investigators say that 54-year-old Bobby Morlen failed to report his mother's death on August 18, 2014.
According to the evidence, Morlen's mother was receiving both Social Security and VA benefits. When she passed away, the death was not reported to either agency. The benefits continued being deposited in her account and Morlen was a joint account holder. Prosecutors say that the money, almost $140,000, was used by Morlen for his personal expenses.
This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
Morlen faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on each count. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 8, 2020.
