Methuen Woman Arrested for Stealing Social Security Benefits

From the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Massachusetts:

BOSTON – A Methuen woman was arrested yesterday in connection with stealing Social Security benefits intended for her child.   

Karen Silva-Brown, 56, was indicted on one count of theft of public funds. Silva-Brown was released on conditions following an initial appearance yesterday afternoon before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Judith G. Dein. 

According to the indictment, from November 2014 through October 2018, Silva-Brown embezzled approximately $60,810 in Social Security benefits that were intended for her minor child.

The charge of theft of public funds provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Sharon MacDermott, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division, made the announcement. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Burzycki of Rollins’ Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.