Lynn Woman Indicted for Stealing Social Security Benefits

BOSTON – A Lynn woman was arrested today for allegedly stealing over $50,000 in Social Security benefits.   

Teresa M. Carrington, 64, was charged with one count of theft of public funds. Carrington was released on conditions following an initial appearance before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein in federal court in Boston this afternoon.

According to the indictment, from June 2016 through January 2020, Carrington stole at least $50,210 in Social Security benefits.

The charge of theft of public funds 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 other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and John Cremonini, Acting 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 Rollins’ Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

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