Philadelphia Woman Charged With Receiving Benefits Intended For Her Dead Mother

PHILADELPHIA - Beverly Smyre, 72, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was charged by Information with one count of theft of government funds, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.  According to the information, Smyre’s mother died in November 1989 but Smyre received the Social Security benefits intended for her mother until August 2015 when the fraud was discovered.  The defendant’s alleged actions resulted in a loss to the government of approximately $111,273.10.         

If convicted, Smyre faces a substantial period of incarceration, a three‑year period of supervised release, restitution to the government of $111,273.10, a fine of up to $250,000, 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.

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