Massachusetts mom found guilty of stealing $35,716 in benefits intended for her children

A Sharon woman pleaded guilty on June 20th in federal court in Boston to stealing Social Security benefits intended for her children.

Stacey Orlando, 59, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft of public funds. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Sept. 18, 2019. Orlando was charged and arrested in May 2018.

From May 2011 through October 2013, Orlando stole Social Security benefits that were paid to her on behalf of her two children. The Government alleges that Orlando stole approximately $35,716 in benefits.

The charge of theft of public funds provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Scott Antolik, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Burzycki of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.