A farmer from Kentucky is facing serious consequences after admitting to cheating the federal crop insurance program out of nearly $1.5 million. Robert Thomas Hunt, who lives in Taylor County, pleaded guilty to the charges and is now awaiting his sentencing.
Hunt’s scheme spanned from 2015 to 2021. During this time, he instructed grain haulers to sell his crops—soybeans, corn, and wheat—under the names of his children. This tactic was meant to create the illusion that his crop yields had drastically decreased, allowing him to claim significant losses on his crop insurance policy. In fact, he reported a staggering loss of $322,000 in 2015 alone. The insurance program ultimately paid him a total of $1.49 million, despite the fact that his farm was still producing a lot of goods, which he concealed by using family names.
According to court documents, Hunt was aware that his children had no legitimate interest in the crops sold in their names. He intentionally hid these sales from crop loss adjusters, which led to inflated losses on his insurance claims. To further obscure his actions, he even used different addresses for his children.
As a result of his actions, Hunt could face up to 30 years in prison. He also risks losing his property, having to repay the insurance program, and paying a fine that could reach $1 million.
This case is part of a larger trend of crop insurance fraud in Kentucky. In recent years, more than 30 individuals have been charged with similar crimes. One notable case involved a tobacco farmer who pleaded guilty to defrauding the program of over $9 million last year.
Hunt’s situation serves as a reminder of the serious repercussions of fraud, especially in the agricultural sector. As authorities continue to crack down on such schemes, many are watching closely to see how this case unfolds.