December 7, 2007

BARRE MAN ARRAIGNED ON CHARGES OF FALSE STATEMENTS

The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont stated that John P. Pecor, 58, of Barre, Vermont pleaded not guilty today in United States District Court to a four-count indictment charging him with making false statements in documents that he filed with the Barre Housing Authority. The false statements resulted in him obtaining housing assistance payments from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the rental of an apartment at 170 South Main Street, Barre, Vermont that he was not entitled to. Pecor was released on a variety of conditions. A trial date has not yet been scheduled.

The indictment charges that Pecor knowingly and willfully made false, fraudulent and fictitious material statements and representations on “Family Information” and “Applicant/Tenant Certification” documents when he reported his income for the years 2003 through 2006. If he is convicted, he faces a maximum possible term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of $250,000 on each count. The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.

Thomas D. Anderson, the United States Attorney, commended the efforts of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. The defendant is represented by Robert Fellrath of the Federal Public Defender’s Office. The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney, Nancy J. Creswell.