By Ryan Duey

A federal grand jury in Topeka has indicted James and Equanda Bradford, of Junction City, for fraudulently obtaining disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), according to the United States Attorney. The charges include conspiracy and theft of public money, property, or records.

According to court documents, James, a U.S. Army veteran, and Equanda provided false information to the VA regarding his caregiver needs and her caregiving functions. This led to the couple receiving $172,426 in disability compensation they were not entitled to. The indictment underscores allegations of deceitful practices in obtaining VA benefits.

The Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General and the General Services Administration – Office of Inspector General are investigating the case.