Broken Trust: Boston City Councilor Hit with Federal Fraud Charges in Kickback Scheme
A Boston City Councilor faces federal fraud charges after allegedly orchestrating a kickback scheme and violating city hiring rules. š #News #BostonMA #Massachusetts #Crime
BOSTON, MA – Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson was arrested on Friday on federal fraud charges, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts confirmed. The charges stem from allegations that she engaged in fraudulent activities involving her staff and the misuse of public funds.
Allegations of Hiring a Family Member and Kickback Scheme
The indictment reveals that in 2022, Fernandes Anderson violated city rules when she hired a relative as a staff member. At the time of the hiring, she reportedly misrepresented her relationship with the individual, claiming they were not related, despite knowing otherwise.
The charges also involve a $13,000 bonus agreement made in 2023. According to the indictment, Fernandes Anderson agreed to award the bonus on the condition that a portion would be paid back to her as a kickback. Investigators claim the staffer handed over $7,000 in cash during a meeting in June 2023, which took place in a City Hall bathroom. This exchange was reportedly arranged through text messages.
Fernandes Anderson justified the large bonus by claiming it was for previous volunteer work done by the staffer. However, the bonus amount was far larger than those given to other employees, raising suspicions about its legitimacy.
Financial Struggles and Ethical Violations
In addition to the alleged fraud, the indictment points to Fernandes Andersonās personal financial difficulties in mid-2023. She faced several challenges, including overdue rent and car payments, as well as bank overdraft fees. This financial strain led to low daily balances in her accounts.
Earlier in 2023, Fernandes Anderson admitted to an ethics violation for hiring her sister and son as staff members, which resulted in a $5,000 fine. Despite these prior infractions, the new charges highlight a more serious pattern of alleged misconduct.
Legal Charges and Potential Consequences
Fernandes Anderson now faces five counts of wire fraud and one count of theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. These charges could carry significant legal consequences if she is convicted.
As the legal proceedings continue, Fernandes Andersonās position as a public official could be in jeopardy, depending on the outcome of the case.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Politics | Massachusetts
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