Social Security Administration Employee Accused of Fraud and Money Laundering

From the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Colorado:

DENVER - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces Justin Skiff, age 36, of Castle Pines, appeared in U.S District Court today to face one count each of wire fraud, social security fraud, and money laundering.

According to the information filed in this case, beginning in August 2019 and continuing through September 2021, it is alleged Skiff used his position as a claims specialist with the Social Security Administration (SSA), to fraudulently obtain money from the SSA. Skiff is alleged to have filed fictious claims for benefits using false identities and the identity of an actual individual to collect proceeds from these claims. According to court documents, Skiff’s actions ultimately led to the theft of approximately $310,601.44 from the SSA.

Skiff made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Kristen L. Mix on December 15, 2022. Wire fraud carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Social Security fraud carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Money laundering carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction. If convicted, Skiff must also forfeit any property derived from proceeds traceable to the scheme.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sonia J. Dave.

The charges contained in the information are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.