Fraud! 56-Year-Old Man Arrested for Dressing as His Deceased Mother for 3 Years to Collect Pension

A 56-year-old man from Borgo Virgilio, Italy, is currently under investigation for benefit fraud after allegedly disguising himself as his deceased mother for nearly three years in order to continue collecting her pension benefits illegally. 

The suspicion arose when he visited a local council office to renew her identification card, wearing a wig, makeup, jewelry, and attempting to imitate her voice and mannerisms. Staff members noticed inconsistencies in his appearance, particularly concerning his neck, hands, and speech patterns, which raised suspicion. 

Authorities later examined surveillance photos and conducted an extensive investigation, uncovering the woman’s body concealed in the laundry room of his residence. Investigators have stated that he illegally received thousands of euros in pension payments since her death in 2022. 

The man, who is unemployed and works as a nurse, had reportedly been relying on his mother’s pension, along with income generated from ownership of three properties located in the area, which together amounted to approximately €53,000 annually.