Former Massachusetts state lawmaker David Nangle has been sentenced to 15 months in prison for fraudulently obtaining pandemic unemployment benefits. The 60-year-old Democrat who served for over 20 years in the state legislature was convicted of using over $370,000 in government assistance funds for personal expenses.
Nangle falsely claimed to be unemployed due to the pandemic and filed for benefits, despite still holding a position in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He used the funds to pay for his mortgage, credit card bills, and gambling debts. In addition to the prison sentence, Nangle has been ordered to pay restitution and forfeit the $15,615 cash that was seized during a search of his home.
The judge overseeing the case noted that Nangle’s actions were a betrayal of public trust and an abuse of his position as a lawmaker. The prosecutor described Nangle’s scheme as a “brazen” attempt to embezzle government funds for personal gain.
Nangle resigned from his position in the legislature last year following the federal charges against him. He apologized in court for his actions and expressed remorse for the harm he caused to the public and his family. His attorney argued for a lighter sentence, citing his client’s poor financial situation and struggles with mental health issues.
This case highlights the vulnerabilities in the system for distributing pandemic relief funds and the importance of oversight to prevent fraud. The sentencing of Nangle serves as a warning to others who may attempt to exploit government assistance programs for personal gain.
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