(WNY News Now) – Wendy Stone admitted to unlawfully collecting over $8,900 in government benefits by hiding the death of a benefits recipient for months.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Wednesday that Wendy Stone, 63, of Rochester, has pleaded guilty to conversion and unlawful conveyance of government money in federal court. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Testani, Stone knowingly concealed the death of a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipient, identified as Victim 1, who passed away on December 28, 2022. Rather than report the death, Stone took possession of the victim’s debit card and continued using SSI funds that were still being deposited.
To maintain access to these benefits, Stone activated a new debit card using Victim 1’s Social Security number. She then moved the deceased’s body into the basement of the Rochester residence, wrapped it in plastic, placed it in a recycling bin, and attempted to mask decomposition by pouring bleach on it periodically. The body remained hidden until September 2023.
Between January and September 2023, Stone fraudulently collected $7,902 in SSI benefits. Additionally, in February 2023, she submitted a false recertification for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, claiming Victim 1 was still alive and living with her. This resulted in an additional $1,072 in improperly obtained benefits.
The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, led by Special Agent-in-Charge Amy Connelly, and the Rochester Police Department, under Chief David Smith.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 17, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
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