Alabama Department of Labor Commissioner Tom Surtees announced today that the Department has successfully prosecuted several Alabamians for unemployment compensation fraud. The following individuals were charged with violating the Alabama Unemployment Compensation Law by making false statements in claims for benefits:

 Demetrius D. Barkley, of Birmingham, was tried in Jefferson County District Court on May 6, 2013. An investigation by Labor’s Benefit Payment Control Section determined that Barkley received a total of $4,059 in benefits to which he was not entitled.

Barkley pled guilty and was sentenced to six months in jail, which was suspended, and 24 months of unsupervised probation. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of benefits received illegally.

 Adron Turner, of Tuscaloosa, was tried in Tuscaloosa County District Court on May 1, 2013.

Governor Robert Bentley recently proclaimed May 12-18 as Prevention Week in Alabama, coinciding with the National Prevention Week observance. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, NPW is dedicated to increasing awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. It serves to promote prevention efforts, provide education about behavioral health and strengthen community partnerships.

This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference.," emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices people make in their own lives.

Dr. Maranda Brown, director of the Office of Prevention Services in ADMH’s Division of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, says, “The Office of Prevention Services is extremely excited to celebrate the 2nd annual NPW observance.