An 80-year-old Independence, Missouri, man has pleaded guilty in federal court to fraudulently obtaining $124,262 in disability-related payments from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs after admitting he fabricated claims about combat service, military decorations, and a medical diagnosis.
James Lyon admitted repeatedly providing false information about his military history, falsely claiming prestigious combat decorations, and submitting fraudulent documents to the VA. Federal officials said the prosecution is among fraud cases pursued under President Donald Trump’s administration and through the establishment of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
R. Matthew Price, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Missouri, said veterans’ benefits represent a national commitment to those who served and sacrificed. He said fraud involving those programs undermines their integrity and diverts resources from veterans who legitimately earned and need the benefits. Price said federal prosecutors would continue pursuing those who attempt to defraud programs intended to honor and support veterans.
Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General Cheryl L. Mason said false claims involving a veteran’s identity, military service, or awards diminish the sacrifices of those who genuinely served and dishonor veterans who rightfully earned their benefits. Mason said the VA Office of Inspector General remains committed to holding offenders accountable and will continue working with the...
Abbott Laboratories has agreed to pay $384,999,040 to resolve federal allegations that it caused false claims to be submitted to government programs for powdered infant formula and nutritional pro...