Ross Twp. Man Admits Cashing $304K Of Deceased Mother’s Social Security Benefits

PITTSBURGH - A Ross Township resident pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government money, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.

Chauncey Clinton, 65, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak.

In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from June 1, 1973, to April 3, 2012, Chauncey Clinton converted to his own use $304,853.00 in Social Security Title II, Old Age, Survivor’s Disability Insurance benefit payments of his mother, Clara Clinton, who died on May 7, 1973, benefits to which he knew he was not entitled.

Judge Hornak scheduled sentencing for Jan. 23, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

The Court released Clinton on a $10,000 unsecured bond pending sentencing.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Clinton.