Meadeville Woman Admits Stealing Her Son's Benefits
ERIE, Pa. - A resident of Meadville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of theft of government property, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today.
Lisa Louise Palmiero-Jackson, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Sean J. McLaughlin.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that from August 2005 to August 2011, Palmiero-Jackson, after applying to received Supplemental Security Income ("SSI") Benefits on her son's behalf, knowingly and willfully converted those benefits to her own use. By doing so, Palmiero-Jackson received payments, valuing approximately $39,661, to which she knew she was not entitled.
Judge McLaughlin scheduled sentencing for December 3, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. The law provides for a total sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Pending sentencing, the court continued Palmiero-Jackson on bond.
Assistant United States Attorney Christine A. Sanner 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 Palmiero-Jackson.
