Sharon Woman Sentenced for Stealing Social Security Benefits

BOSTON – A Sharon woman was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for stealing Social Security benefits intended for her children.   

Stacey Orlando, 60, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to time served (one day), two years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $33,795 in restitution to the Social Security Administration. Orlando was arrested and charged in May 2018. 

Orlando’s two children, who received monthly Social Security benefits – which were paid to Orlando as their representative payee – were removed from her care by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families in May 2011. Orlando failed to inform Social Security that her children were no longer in her custody, and instead, falsely told Social Security that her children lived with her and that she spent all of the benefits she received for their care and support. In reality, from May 2011 through October 2013, Orlando stole $33,795 intended for the benefit of her two children.

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 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.