David James Massey, a 39-year-old resident of Pace, Florida, has admitted to theft of government funds in a federal court. The announcement was made by John P. Heekin, the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin stated: “Social Security Disability benefits provide support for the basic needs of elderly and disabled citizens, but this defendant took those monies to line his own pockets despite knowing he wasn’t entitled to receive them. My office is committed to identifying and prosecuting this financial abuse, returning taxpayer dollars to the American people, and ensuring a just sentence for those who prey on these resources.”
According to court documents, Massey’s mother was a beneficiary under the Social Security Administration’s Title II program and received her benefits in a joint bank account with Massey. After her death in 2019, Massey continued using her benefits without notifying the SSA. From 2019 until August 2023, over $118,000 was deposited into their joint account by the SSA. Massey transferred these funds into multiple accounts for personal use.
Massey could face up to ten years in prison for his actions. If sentenced to imprisonment, he may also serve up to three years of supervised release afterward. Violating conditions during this period could lead to additional incarceration. As part of his plea agreement, Massey must repay all unlawfully obtained funds from the SSA.
The case was investigated by the Office of the Inspector General at the Social Security Administration and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer H. Callahan.
Sentencing is set for September 30, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida operates as one of 94 offices serving as principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. Public court documents can be accessed online through the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. More information about this office can be found at http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
