State Representative Chris Flanagan Charged With Fraud

BREWSTER – Massachusetts State Representative Christopher Flanagan, D–Dennis, has been charged with five counts of wire fraud and one count of falsification of records, according to a press release from the Department of Justice Friday morning. 

 Flanagan was arrested Friday morning and was scheduled to appear in federal court in Boston. 

 He allegedly used stolen funds for mortgage and credit card payments, campaign funding, and personal expenditures including psychic services, menswear and an air conditioner.

Last year, the Yarmouth Police Department investigated fraudulent activity and releasing a heavily redacted report that said “inconsistencies were prevalent” when Flanagan used a business account to issue “checks written to himself” and “several withdrawals totaling about $36,000.” On a separate section of the report labeled “other properties,” an amount of $26,500 was listed as “stolen.” 

 The investigation was then taken over by the United States Attorney General. 

“Today’s charges against Massachusetts State Representative Christopher Flanagan reveal an appalling breach of public trust. According to the indictment, Mr. Flanagan defrauded the very organization he was supposed to serve – allegedly funneling tens of thousands of dollars into his own pockets to pay off personal bills, buy luxury items and bankroll his political campaign. He allegedly stole money and then went to extraordinary lengths to cover it up, going so far as fabricating fake personas to mislead those who questioned his conduct. This alleged scheme was calculated on every level,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “No one is entitled to power by way of fraud, and the people of Massachusetts deserve better.”

According to the release, the charges of wire fraud each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of falsification of records provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. 

“These are serious allegations against Representative Flanagan that threaten to undermine the important work of the Legislature and cast doubt on his ability to faithfully serve his constituents,” said Governor Maura Healey. “He should resign." 

This is a developing story.