Charges Allege Woman Used Dead Mother's Government Benefits

Elizabeth Goode-Bishop, 65, of New Castle, Delaware, was charged today by information with one count of theft of government funds, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.  According to the information, the defendant received retirement benefits intended for her mother, after her mother’s death in March 1988 until her fraud was discovered in October 2013.  The defendant’s alleged actions resulted in a loss to the government of approximately $169,198.          

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison, a three year period of supervised release, restitution to the government of $169,198, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.

The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Reinitz.

Click here to view the indictment

An Information is an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525