Syracuse Woman Charged with Social Security Fraud and Theft of Government Property

U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of New York

Rhonda Cook, age 61, of Syracuse, New York made her initial appearance September 14, 2026, in federal court on charges of social security fraud and theft of government property.  First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Amy Connelly, Special Agent-in-Charge, Boston–New York–Philadelphia Field Division, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) made the announcement.

According to the indictment, Cook received and kept Social Security money intended for a Social Security recipient while serving as a representative payee for that recipient and did not use the money for the benefit of the recipient. This action is part of an ongoing effort of the Trump Administration’s Fraud Task Force aimed at eliminating fraud across the country.  The charges in the indictment are merely accusations.  The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

First Assistant United States Attorney John Sarcone stated, “This case demonstrates that our commitment to identifying and prosecuting fraud applies across the board, whether it is a five-figure, six-figure or even greater case, my office stands ready to hold people accountable when they illegally take resources from those who truly need it.”

“Diverting Social Security benefits entrusted to one’s care is a serious violation that harms both the beneficiary and the integrity of a program relied upon by millions,” said Amy Connelly, Special Agent‑in‑Charge, SSA OIG Boston–New York–Philadelphia Field Division. “Our office will continue to identify and stop those who take advantage of these benefits and ensure they are used as intended.”

The charges filed against Cook include a maximum term of 10 years in prison for theft of government property and 5 years in prison for each of the social security fraud counts.  Cook may also be ordered to pay restitution to the government.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. 

SSA OIG is investigating the case, and it is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Arne Soldwedel.