West Virginia § 9-5-4 - 9-5-4. Penalties for false statements, etc.
Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 9-5-4 — 9-5-4. Penalties for false statements, etc., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-5-4. 9-5-4. Penalties for false statements, etc.
Any person who obtains or attempts to obtain, or aids or abets an applicant or recipient in obtaining or attempting to obtain, by means of a willfully false statement or misrepresentation or by impersonation of any other fraudulent device:
(1) Any class of welfare assistance to which the applicant or recipient is not entitled; or
(2) Any class of welfare assistance in excess of that to which the applicant or recipient is justly entitled; shall upon conviction be punished as follows:
(a) If the aggregate value of all funds or other benefits obtained or attempted to be obtained shall be $500 or less, the person so convicted shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or confined in jail not exceeding one year; or
(b) If the aggregate value of all funds or other benefits obtained or attempted to be obtained shall exceed $500, the person so convicted shall be guilty of a felony and, shall be fined not more than $5,000 or confined in the penitentiary not less than one year nor more than five years.
Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 9-5-4
What does West Virginia Code § 9-5-4 cover?
Section 9-5-4 ("9-5-4. Penalties for false statements, etc.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite West Virginia § 9-5-4?
A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 9-5-4" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of West Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.
How does West Virginia § 9-5-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.