In a startling revelation, Christopher Stultz, a 49-year-old veteran from Antrim, New Hampshire, has admitted to perpetrating a two-decade-long fraud by falsely claiming the need for a wheelchair.
The confession was made in federal court, where Stultz pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements. His sentencing is scheduled for May 6, as reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Hampshire.
False Claims and Illicit Benefits
Stultz’s fraudulent activities began in January 2003 when he informed the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that he was unable to use his feet.
This declaration led to a 100% disability rating and an increase in his monthly benefits.
Additionally, he received extra funds for adapting five vehicles to accommodate a mobility-impaired individual, according to his plea agreement dated January 4.
Over the course of nearly two decades, from January 2003 to December 2022, Stultz illicitly obtained $662,871.77 in VA benefits to which he was not entitled.
Surveillance Reveals Deception
The veteran’s deception was brought to light when law enforcement officers observed him multiple times walking without reliance on his wheelchair.
In a particularly damning incident in October 2021, Stultz was seen using a wheelchair within a VA facility.
However, once outside, he stood up, lifted the wheelchair into his car, and proceeded to walk normally through multiple stores at a shopping mall.
Admission of Wrongdoing
Confronted by law enforcement about his mobility capabilities, Stultz admitted to the deception, acknowledging that he could use both of his feet and that collecting extra benefits was wrong.
Furthermore, he conceded that the VA-funded vehicles with special adaptations were unnecessary and had been sold.
Multiple individuals who had known Stultz since the early 2000s attested, according to the plea agreement, that they had never observed him requiring a wheelchair or any ambulatory device for mobility.
Legal Ramifications
Christopher Stultz’s fraudulent actions have significant legal consequences.
His guilty plea to making false statements underscores the severity of the deception, which not only impacted the VA but also compromised the integrity of benefits intended for genuinely disabled individuals.
Stultz’s sentencing on May 6 will determine the repercussions he will face for his two-decade-long deception.
No immediate response was received from Stultz’s attorney for comments on the matter.
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