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Local Couple’s Despicable Scheme Uncovered
A Watauga, Texas couple’s shocking scheme to steal over $100,000 in Social Security retirement benefits has finally come to an end. Terry Lee Anderson, 70, and Melanie Jane Anderson, 65, pleaded guilty to theft charges in federal court on May 10, 2016.
According to court documents, the Andersons concealed the death of Melanie’s father, Mervin Hartman, who passed away in January 2002 while living in the Philippines. As a result, the Social Security Administration continued to directly deposit monthly retirement benefits into Hartman’s bank account from 2002 to 2013.
The investigation revealed that the Andersons had been accessing Hartman’s bank account and withdrawing the funds, which they used for their own benefit. The Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General initiated an investigation after uncovering Hartman’s death overseas.
In entering their guilty pleas, the Andersons admitted to concealing Hartman’s death from the Social Security Administration and his bank, and specifically knew that his retirement benefits should have ceased after his death. They agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $95,877.78 to the Social Security Administration.
Terry and Melanie Anderson are scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, 2016, before U.S. District Judge Marilyn L. Huff. The couple faces a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for their crimes.
The Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General led the investigation, which uncovered the Andersons’ despicable scheme to steal from the government. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in government programs.
The Grimy Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
DEFENDANT
Criminal Case No. 16cr1002-H
Terry Lee Anderson Watauga, TX Age: 70
Melanie Jane Anderson Watauga, TX Age: 65
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Theft of Public Property – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 641
Maximum penalty: 10 years’ imprisonment and $250,000 fine
AGENCIES
Social Security Administration / Office of Inspector General
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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