Utah Code 76-8-1203.1. Public assistance fraud by an applicant for public assistance
Current as of: 2024 | Check for updates
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(1) Terms defined in Sections 76-1-101.5 , 76-8-101 , and 76-8-1201 apply to this section.
Attorney's Note
Under the Utah Code, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| class A misdemeanor | up to 364 days | up to $2,500 |
| class B misdemeanor | up to 6 months | up to $1,000 |
Terms Used In Utah Code 76-8-1203.1
- Actor: means a person whose criminal responsibility is in issue in a criminal action. See Utah Code 76-1-101.5
- Conduct: means an act or omission. See Utah Code 76-1-101.5
- Fraud: Intentional deception resulting in injury to another.
- Public assistance: means the same as that term is defined in Section
35A-1-102 . See Utah Code 76-8-1201
(2) An actor commits public assistance fraud by an applicant for public assistance if the actor intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly:
(2)(a) applies for public assistance; and
(2)(b) fails to disclose a material fact required to be disclosed under Subsection 76-8-1203 (1).
(3) Subject to Subsection (5), a violation of Subsection (2) is, based on the value of payments, assistance, or other benefits received, misappropriated, claimed, or applied:
(3)(a) a second degree felony if the value is or exceeds $5,000;
(3)(b) a third degree felony if the value is or exceeds $1,500 but is less than $5,000;
(3)(c) a class A misdemeanor if the value is or exceeds $500 but is less than $1,500; or
(3)(d) a class B misdemeanor if the value is less than $500.
(4) It is not a defense to prosecution under this section that the actor repaid the funds or benefits obtained in violation of this section.
(5)
(5)(a) In determining the value of payments, assistance, or other benefits received to determine the penalty level of an actor’s conduct under Subsection (3), the value is calculated by aggregating the values of each instance of public assistance fraud committed by the actor as part of the same facts and circumstances or a related series of facts and circumstances.
(5)(b) The value of a benefit received by an individual is the ordinary or usual charge for similar benefits in the private sector.
(6) The provisions of Section 35A-1-503 apply to a prosecution brought under this section.