New Bedford Man Charged with Social Security Fraud

From the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Massachusetts

BOSTON – A New Bedford man was charged today in federal court in Boston with fraudulently receiving Social Security disability benefits.   

Anthony Patterson, 62, was charged with one count of theft of government money. Patterson will make an appearance in federal court in Boston at a later date.

The charging document alleges that, from May 2013 to May 2023, Patterson stole approximately $92,582 in Social Security disability benefits.

The charge of theft of government money provides for a sentence of up to 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 statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Bradley Parker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement today.  Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.