Man Hides Dad's Death to Get Social Security Checks

Federal prosecutors say a southern New Jersey man hid his father's death from authorities for 22 years so he could keep receiving his dad's Social Security payments.
 
Michael Shelton of Pennsauken pleaded guilty Monday to a complaint charging him with theft of government funds. Overall, he admitted stealing about $205,000.

The 65-year-old Shelton faces up to 10 years in prison when he's sentenced Aug. 1.
 
When his father died in March 1990, Shelton purposely failed to notify the Social Security Administration. The agency discovered the death last June and learned the deceased was receiving $977 in monthly benefits.
 
Prosecutors say Shelton arranged for the checks to be direct deposited into a bank account in his father's name. He then occasionally withdrew funds to pay for personal expenses.

Related Stories:

Former Teacher of the Year Avoids Prison on Sex Charge

Regusters Indicted in 5-Year-Old Girl's Abduction, Rape

Petition Calls for Pros to Fund High Schoolers' Teams
 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us