PHOENIX — An Arizona man has been ordered to pay $1.3 million in restitution after he spent decades using stolen identities to obtain Social Security benefits.
John Logan Capps III, 71, of Fort Mohave has pleaded guilty to stealing government funds and was recently sentenced to 18 months in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office of Arizona.
Prosecutors say Capps misused up to 25 identities over the last two decades in order to fraudulently receive the federal benefits.
Court records show Capps is in "extremely poor health," which is why prosecutors did not attempt to seek a longer prison sentence.
After he's released from prison, Capps will be placed on probation for three years. The defendant has additionally been ordered to pay $1.3 million in restitution.
“For nearly two decades, Mr. Capps intentionally stole the identities of individuals to gain access to their Social Security benefits," said Gail S. Ennis, inspector general for the Social Security Administration.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on our 12 News YouTube playlist here.
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.