A woman from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced to five years of probation for theft of government funds. Patty Merlo, aged 66, received her sentence in federal court as announced by Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines delivered the sentence to Merlo following her conviction. Court records indicate that between May 2016 and January 2022, Merlo embezzled approximately $91,300 in Social Security payments, knowing she was not entitled to these funds.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon on behalf of the government. Acting United States Attorney Rivetti praised the Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General for their investigation that led to Merlo's prosecution.
