South Glens Falls Woman Indicted For Social Security Fraud

ALBANY, NEW YORK – Roberta L. Rivers, age 57, of South Glens Falls, New York, was arraigned yesterday on an indictment accusing her of stealing $112,000 in benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The announcement was made by United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and Edward J. Ryan, Special Agent-In-Charge of the SSA Office of the Inspector General.

Rivers is charged with theft of government property, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) fraud, and Social Security fraud. The indictment alleges that Rivers, while collecting SSI and survivors insurance benefits, concealed and failed to disclose that she had been remarried and resided with her new husband, a fact that she knew would disqualify her from receiving benefits.

The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Rivers faces up to 5 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine if convicted.  Actual sentences are typically less than the maximum penalties.  Sentences are imposed by a judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Rivers, who was indicted on January 20, 2016, was arraigned yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart.  She was released on a bond pending a trial scheduled for March 28, 2016 before Senior U.S. District Judge Gary L. Sharpe.

This case is being investigated by the SSA Office of the Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason W. White.