Berks County Man Charged In Government Fraud

PHILADELPHIA - Miguel Gutierrez, 42, of Bernville, PA, was charged today by information with three counts of wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.  According to the information, Gutierrez was employed as a Claims Representative in the Social Security Field Office in Reading, PA, when he used his access to Social Security’s computer systems to redirect benefits intended for third-party individuals into his own bank account.  Gutierrez allegedly received three stolen benefit payments, resulting in a loss to the government of approximately $6,166.66.          

If convicted, the defendant faces a statutory maximum sentence of 60 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, forfeiture, a possible fine, restitution of $6,166.66, and a $300 special assessment.

The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Reinitz.

     An Information is an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.