New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the arrest and indictment of Raymond Phillips, 40, of Huntington, Suffolk County, for allegedly fraudulently collecting more than $100,000 in Social Security disability benefits, according to an official announcement from the Office of the New York Attorney General (OAG).
According to the announcement, Phillips submitted paperwork to the New York Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) in August 2018 claiming he had sustained serious injuries to his dominant arm from weightlifting and was physically incapable of working or performing most routine daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) approved his disability benefits application in May 2021, retroactive to 2018. From May 2021 through December 2024, Phillips collected $100,000 in disability benefits based on those claims.
“Hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers rely on disability benefits as a source of independence and income,” said Attorney General James. “Raymond Phillips shamelessly collected benefits meant for disabled New Yorkers while boasting his weightlifting achievements on social media. My office has no tolerance for fraudsters who cheat the system and steal from programs that are a lifeline for New Yorkers in need. I thank our partners in law enforcement and the Social Security Administration for ensuring we hold those who steal taxpayer dollars accountable.”
The OAG’s investigation found that during the same period Phillips was receiving benefits (between 2021 and 2024), he posted videos and photos on Facebook and Instagram showing himself lifting heavy weights, competing in weightlifting competitions, and advertising a personal trainer business. The announcement states that Phillips continued to claim eligibility for disability benefits in hearings and written reports through October 2025.
Phillips has been charged with one count of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree, a Class C felony, and two counts of Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree, a Class E felony.
The SSA’s Office of the Inspector General participated in the investigation. Conor Washington, Special Agent-in-Charge at the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General, was quoted in the announcement stating that disability benefits are intended for individuals legitimately unable to work and that the agency will continue working with law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the program.
This case is relevant to consumers and taxpayers who rely on or interact with federal disability benefit programs. Fraudulent claims can affect the availability of resources for individuals with legitimate disabilities. Readers with questions about Social Security disability eligibility or reporting fraud should contact the SSA or the SSA Office of the Inspector General directly to verify information specific to their situation.
What to Read Next
The SEC Just Formed a Retail Fraud Working Group: What Everyday Investors Should Watch
Hospital Service Costs Rose in May CPI—A Retirement Healthcare Planning Reminder
Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. With a BA in journalism from Wingate University, she frequently writes for a handful of websites and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn’t typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, son, husband, and dog. During her free time, you’re likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.