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Christi Marie Johnson Accused of Swindling Government Funds
A Spearfish, South Dakota, woman is facing serious charges after allegedly embezzling government funds meant for her deceased stepfather.
According to court documents, Christi Marie Johnson, 36, was indicted by a federal grand jury on November 9, 2021, for Theft of Government Funds. She appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Veronica L. Duffy on November 10, 2021, and pleaded not guilty to the indictment.
The maximum penalty for conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The indictment alleges that between June 15, 2017, and May 7, 2018, Johnson willfully and knowingly embezzled, stole, purloined, and converted to her own use money from departments and agencies of the United States, namely Title II program benefits payments made to her deceased stepfather, to which Johnson knew she was not entitled. Title II is administered by the U.S. Social Security Administration.
Johnson was released on bond pending trial, which has been set for January 18, 2022. The investigation is being conducted by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman is prosecuting the case.
The charge against Johnson is merely an accusation, and she is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Mandatory Facts: Defendant’s name: Christi Marie Johnson. Exact crime: Theft of Government Funds. City and state: Spearfish, South Dakota. Exact date: June 15, 2017 – May 7, 2018. Sentence or outcome: Released on bond pending trial. Maximum penalty: Up to 10 years in federal prison, $250,000 fine, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Key Facts
- State: South Dakota
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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