WORCESTER – A local woman pleaded guilty in federal court on Tuesday, May 12, to charges for fraudulently receiving Social Security benefits.
Leidy E. Otero, 43, of Gardner pleaded guilty to single counts of receipt of stolen government money or property and Social Security fraud – concealment.
In July 2014, Otero reported that she was married but not living with her husband. After making that report, Otero’s husband moved into the same residence as her.
Eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) includes the income of the spouse if they live in the same home. Her husband’s income exceeded the eligibility standards, but she failed to report the change in living conditions as required.
The charge of receipt of stolen government money or property 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. The charge of Social Security fraud – concealment provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater.
The judge scheduled sentencing for Aug. 27, 2026.
