FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	CONTACT: Lauren Horwood
February 14, 2011	PHONE: (916) 554-2706
www.usdoj.gov/usao/cae	usacae.edcapress@usdoj.gov
Docket #:1:11-cr-00068-OWW

FRESNO, Calif. — United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced today that Claire Denise Madden, 46, of Fresno, was arrested today on a federal grand jury indictment issued on February 10, 2011, charging her with theft of government property for stealing Social Security disability benefits. She will appear before United States Magistrate Judge Sandra M. Snyder for arraignment tomorrow at 1:30 p.m.

The indictment alleges that from 2004 to 2009, Madden acted as a representative payee to receive and administer disability benefits for a disabled individual. In 2005, Madden learned that the individual died but failed to notify the Social Security Administration of the individual’s death. Despite the death, Madden continued receiving the individual’s disability benefits and used the benefits for herself. During this time, Madden stole over $45,000 in disability benefits.

This case is the product of an extensive investigation by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Ian L. Garriques is prosecuting the case.

If convicted, Madden faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

The charges are only allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

####

 

Return to Top