A Hampton Falls woman pleaded guilty in federal court last week after she stole government funds meant for her deceased mother for four years.

Kelley Bevin, 53, is accused of using her mother's bank card to steal $80,826 in Social Security Administration benefits and COVID-19 stimulus payments.

According to a press release from officials at the Department of Justice, Bevin's mother died in May of 2016 and the Social Security Administration was not informed of her death.

Bevin took possession of her mother's bank card several weeks before the woman passed away, according to the press release.

Acting U.S. Attorney John Farley said in a statement that Social Security and CARES Act benefits provide important financial support for qualified recipients.

“In order to protect the integrity of these federal programs, we will not hesitate to pursue criminal charges against those who steal federal benefits.  I am grateful to the Office of Inspector General for its investigative efforts in this case,” Farley said.

Inspector General for the Social Security Administration Gail Ennis said anyone who fails to report a death to Social Security should take heed of this guilty plea and know that government officials will come knocking on the door of people who abuse the system. 

“Bevin misused Social Security benefits intended for her deceased mother for several years and additionally, she stole money intended to help a population struggling with the economic effects of the coronavirus.  This should stand as a warning to anyone who is receiving and misusing Social Security benefits intended for someone else,” Ennis said.

Bevin is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 11.

Contact Managing News Editor Kimberley Haas at Kimberley.Haas@townsquaremedia.com. 

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