Middlesex County woman illegally collected $150,903 from Social Security

A woman from Middlesex County, New Jersey has admitted in federal court to illegally collecting over eight years’ worth of Social Security retirement benefits intended for her deceased mother.

Deborah Bailey, 68, of Piscataway, entered a guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Robert A. Kirsch in Trenton, acknowledging one count of theft of public money.

According to court records and statements made during the hearing, Bailey’s mother had been receiving retirement benefits from the Social Security Administration, which were deposited electronically into a joint bank account.

After her mother’s death in 2016, Bailey failed to notify the agency of the death and continued to access and withdraw funds from the account through 2024.

An investigation by the Social Security Administration revealed that Bailey improperly collected approximately $150,903 in benefits during that time. The investigation was conducted by special agents of the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General.

The offense carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for August 19, 2025. The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Keith Abrams.