NEWARK WOMAN CAUGHT USING DEAD PEOPLE TO CASH IN — $300K FRAUD SCHEME EXPOSED
Newark Woman Sentenced in $300K Fraud Scheme Involving Deceased Victims
Joyce Kirkland, 59, sentenced to five years for turning the identities of the deceased into her personal payday.
A Newark woman has been sentenced to five years in state prison for orchestrating a fraud scheme that abused the identities of deceased individuals in order to defraud hundreds of thousands of dollars.
According to the court, the defendant — identified as 59-year-old Joyce Kirkland of Newark — pleaded guilty to participating in a scheme in which victims’ identities were used without authorization. The scheme resulted in losses of approximately $300,000.
In addition to the prison term, the judge ordered Kirkland to pay $475,713 in restitution to the victims.
Local prosecutors say the investigation revealed that Kirkland used personal information belonging to deceased individuals, submitted fraudulent documents, and exploited state-paid benefit programs.
This case highlights a growing concern in New Jersey: fraudsters targeting deceased persons’ identities and abusing public assistance programs. Authorities urge families and estate executors to remain vigilant over death-records, bank accounts, and benefit notifications after a loved one passes away.
Why this matters
- Fraud schemes like this undermine public trust in assistance programs and create added scrutiny for legitimate applicants.
- The use of deceased victims’ identities complicates detection and recovery of funds, making restitution timelines longer and more challenging.
- For New Jersey residents, this serves as a reminder to monitor financial statements and benefit awards, even after a death in the family.
What to watch for
- Unexpected notifications of benefits received or claims filed in the name of someone who has passed away.
- Notices from tax or benefit agencies referencing a file under the name of a deceased relative.
- Strange account activity or correspondence requesting additional identity verification after the fact.