New York Woman Hid Boyfriend's Body in Basement Recycling Bin, Collected His Social Security Benefits
August 14, 2024
FLORIDA: In a shocking and disturbing case, a 63-year-old woman from Rochester, New York, has been charged with hiding her boyfriend's body in a basement recycling bin for months while collecting his Social Security benefits. Wendy Stone, the accused, allegedly wrapped her boyfriend's body in plastic and tape, placed it in a recycling bin, and periodically poured bleach on it to conceal the stench.
According to federal authorities, Kenneth Crisman, Stone's boyfriend, died on December 28, 2022. However, Stone failed to report his death and instead continued to collect his Social Security benefits. She used his debit card to make purchases at restaurants, stores, and ATM cash withdrawals, taking a total of $7,902 between January and September 2023.
The investigation revealed that Stone had discovered Crisman's body with her son, but instead of reporting it, she decided to keep collecting his benefits. She activated his debit card with a new PIN on January 6, 2023, and began making transactions the following day.
Surveillance footage captured Stone and her son using the debit card at a Walmart in Greece, New York, on August 10, 2023. Additionally, a security photo showed Stone making ATM withdrawals of $400 and $300 on June 6, 2023.
The scheme was uncovered when the Social Security Administration conducted a redetermination for continuing eligibility for Stone's own benefits in January 2024. Stone falsely reported that no one had moved into or out of her residence, including births or deaths, and that nobody had helped pay her bills or rent since December 2021.
Stone has been charged with theft of government funds, aggravated identity theft, and making a false statement to obtain Social Security benefits. She faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Stone is not facing any charges related to Crisman's death. The investigation is ongoing, and the community remains stunned by the disturbing allegations.
