Philipsburg Woman Faces Federal Charges for Social Security Fraud

A Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, woman has been indicted by a federal grand jury on multiple charges related to Social Security fraud, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania. Misti Weld, 51, is accused of theft of government property, Social Security fraud, and making false statements to the Social Security Administration.

The indictment alleges that from January 2016 through June 2023, Weld claimed Social Security benefits as a representative payee for her children. The charges state that she did so while knowing she was not entitled to these benefits because her children did not reside in her household. Furthermore, it is alleged that Weld submitted a false application to the Social Security Administration, incorrectly claiming her children were members of her household. The investigation into this case was conducted by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Geoffrey W. MacArthur is prosecuting the case. If found guilty, Weld could face a maximum penalty of 35 years in prison, followed by a term of supervised release, and a fine. Sentencing will be determined by a judge based on federal sentencing statutes and guidelines. It is important to note that indictments are merely allegations, and all individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania

---