In a startling revelation from the office of U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, 77-year-old Janis Miller of South Orange, New Jersey, has been indicted on charges of wire fraud, accused of pilfering more than $1 million in federal benefits designated for her deceased aunt. The indictment marks a significant development in a case that stretches over two decades.

The investigation, led by the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's Offices of the Inspector General, alleges that since 1998, Miller has been diverting retirement and survivor benefits from her late aunt’s bank account to her own use. According to court documents and statements made in court, Miller employed a variety of fraudulent methods, including debit card transactions, cash withdrawals, and forged checks made payable to her own company.

The deceit came to light in 2022 when Miller, in an attempt to continue receiving the benefits, impersonated her deceased aunt during a phone call with an SSA employee, providing the date of birth and other personal details. The fraudulent activities ceased in 2023 after 25 years, following the discovery of the fraud by OPM and SSA.

Miller now faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine up to the greater of $250,000 or twice the pecuniary gain or loss resulting from her actions, should she be found guilty.

The case is currently managed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Thypin-Bermeo of the General Crimes Unit in Newark. While charges against Miller are severe, it is important to remember that she remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty. This case underscores the ongoing vigilance required to protect public funds and the integrity of federal benefit programs.