Maria Houck, Stealing Government Funds, Pennsylvania 2023

New Jersey Woman Charged With Stealing Government Funds

In a shocking case of government corruption, Maria Houck, 59, of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, was charged with a string of crimes that have left the public reeling.

Houck, who remains at large, has been accused of 12 counts of mail fraud, two counts of theft of government funds, and one count of Social Security fraud. The indictment, unsealed yesterday, alleges that Houck received retirement and pension benefits from the Social Security Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs that were intended for her deceased mother, after her mother’s death in June 2005.

The defendant’s alleged actions resulted in a loss to the Social Security Administration of approximately $54,399 and a loss to the Department of Veterans Affairs of approximately $110,354, for a total loss to the government of approximately $164,753.

If convicted, Houck faces a substantial period of incarceration, restitution of $164,753 to the government, three years of supervised release, and possible fines. The case has sent shockwaves through the community, and residents are left wondering how such a heinous crime could have gone undetected for so long.

The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General and the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Amanda R. Reinitz.

As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. Houck’s whereabouts are currently unknown, and a massive manhunt is underway to track down the defendant.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately. Houck’s crimes are a stark reminder of the dangers of government corruption and the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edpa/pr/new-jersey-woman-charged-stealing-government-funds