BOSTON (WBSM) — A New Bedford man, Anthony Patterson, 62, has pleaded guilty in federal court to fraudulently receiving Social Security disability benefits. Patterson admitted to one count of theft of government money.
Sentencing is set for September 10.
Charging documents reveal that Patterson collected Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits from 2013 to 2023, which are designated for individuals with limited financial means. During interviews with the Social Security Administration in 2012 and 2022, he made false sworn statements about his marital status and living situation to hide household income and resources.
As a result of these misrepresentations, Patterson unlawfully collected $92,582 in SSI benefits. He was charged in May 2024.
The theft of government money charge carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of probation, and a fine of $250,000.