BANGOR, Maine — A veteran in Wayne admitted Wednesday in U.S. District Court that he illegally received more than $50,000 in veterans benefits while holding down a job.
Lawrence A. Stewart, 48, waived indictment and pleaded guilty to one count of theft of public money, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.
He was released on personal recognizance bail.
A sentencing date has not been set.
By pleading guilty, Stewart admitted that from about October 2011 until January 2015, he received additional disability compensation from the Veterans Administration based on his employment status when he was, in fact, gainfully employed, a press release issued Thursday by the federal prosecutors’ office said.
Stewart underreported his employment and the income he had received, according to court documents.
He faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. He also could be ordered to pay restitution.
The investigation was conducted by the VA Office of the Inspector General.