Newport News Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing $63K in Social Security Benefits

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A 62-year-old Newport News man has pleaded guilty to theft of government property after admitting he stole nearly $63,000 in Social Security benefits from his deceased neighbor's account. Alonzo Darren McClary was serving as the power of attorney for his elderly neighbor, allowing him to make financial decisions. After the neighbor died in February 2020, McClary continued withdrawing money from the account instead of notifying the Social Security Administration, resulting in an overpayment of $62,957.92.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of properly reporting the death of a Social Security recipient to avoid fraudulent exploitation of government benefits. Theft of government funds is a serious crime that can result in significant prison time and financial penalties.

The details

According to court documents, McClary began serving as the power of attorney for his elderly neighbor on July 5, 2018, allowing him to make financial decisions on the neighbor's behalf. While the neighbor was alive, McClary occasionally withdrew funds to assist with expenses. However, after the neighbor died on Feb. 20, 2020, the Social Security Administration continued depositing benefits into the neighbor's bank account. Instead of notifying the agency of the death, McClary continued withdrawing money for his personal use, resulting in the $62,957.92 overpayment.

• McClary began serving as power of attorney on July 5, 2018.
• The neighbor died on February 20, 2020.
• McClary continued withdrawing funds after the neighbor's death.

What’s next

McClary faces up to 10 years in prison for his crime and will be sentenced at a later date.