Rochester, N.Y. – A Rochester woman is accused of hiding her boyfriend’s dead body in the basement of their home so she could collect his social security checks.
Wendy Stone, 63, is charged with theft of government funds, aggravated identity theft and making a false statement to obtain social security benefits, according to a news release from the United States Attorney’s Office.
Stone’s boyfriend, Kenneth Crisman, died on Dec. 28, 2022, federal prosecutors said. Stone is not accused of hurting Crisman.
Between January and September 2023, Stone spent just under $8,000 of Crisman’s benefits after his death.
Stone did not notify anyone of Crisman’s death. She wrapped his body in plastic and placed it in a recycling bin in the basement of the house they shared in Rochester. She periodically poured bleach on his body to block any foul smell, they said.
The ruse lasted for 9 months, federal prosecutors said.
Stone intended to hide Crisman’s death so she could continue to collect his social security checks.
On Jan. 4, Stone falsely reported to Social Security that no one in the residence had died.
Before Crisman died, he requested a new debit card for his social security benefits. The card was activated on Jan. 6, 2023. It was used at restaurants, Walmart, BJs Wholesalers, ATMs and more.
If convicted, Stone could face 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com.