A former Rochester couple, Michael Joyce and Sarah Shultis, now residing in New Jersey, face serious charges for allegedly defrauding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross has confirmed the arrest and charges against Michael Joyce, 52, and Sarah Shultis, 32, for offenses including theft of government funds, making false statements, wire fraud, and conspiracy. The complaint alleges that Joyce misrepresented his medical conditions to obtain disability compensation from the VA, amounting to over $393,000 as of March 2024. Additionally, Shultis is accused of receiving payments as Joyce’s caregiver under false pretenses, totaling more than $213,000.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas M. Testani, Joyce’s claims for various disabilities, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and physical impairments, resulted in a 100% disability rating and significant monthly compensation. However, investigations revealed inconsistencies in Joyce’s statements, with witnesses describing him as physically capable and active, contradicting his alleged need for constant care and assistance.
The investigation into this case was led by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector.
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