A Franklinton resident has pleaded guilty to theft of government funds, according to a statement from Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Barbara Augustin, 58, entered her plea on October 23, 2025, after being charged with unlawfully taking money from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Prosecutors stated that Augustin knowingly converted SSA funds for her own use from November 2018 through May 2023. She admitted to obtaining more than $40,000 in benefits by not reporting her son’s incarceration and continuing to receive payments as his representative payee.
Augustin could face up to ten years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The investigation was conducted by the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright from the Financial Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
