Norman man sentenced for fraudulently receiving veteran's benefits

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - A Norman man has been sentenced for fraudulently receiving nearly $27,000 in veteran's benefits, officials say.

According to the United States Department of Justice, a federal jury returned an 11-count Indictment against 45-year-old Gordon Bellamy in March 2024, charging him with theft of public money, making a false statement and nine counts of making false representation of a Social Security number.

Public records say from March 1, 2020, through January 31, 2024, Bellamy received thousands of dollars worth of disability compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which he was not entitled. The Indictment alleges he fraudulently received $26,940.13 from the VA.

“Veterans disability benefits are intended to support injured patriots who make incredible sacrifices to defend our country,” said U.S. Attorney Troester. “Mr. Bellamy’s false claims are not only criminal, but offensive. We remain committed to vigorously investigate and prosecute those who defraud and steal the benefits honestly earned by our veterans.”

Officials say on August 19, 2024, Bellamy pleaded guilty to Count 2 of the Indictment, saying he knowingly made a false statement to the VA where he claimed to be the biological father of a child that was not his.

According to the U.S. Dept. of Justice, Bellamy has been sentenced to 10 months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised released. He has also been ordered by a judge to pay $26,940.13 in restitution to the VA.