A Massachusetts Democrat was arrested and charged after allegedly stealing tens of thousands of dollars from a local trade association to fund both personal and political expenses.
Massachusetts Assemblyman Christopher Flanagan, 37, was charged with five counts of wire fraud and one count of tampering with records on Friday, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Flanagan served as executive officer of the Home Builders Association in Cape Cod and received salaries and benefits ranging from $65,800 to $81,600 between 2019 and 2024. Flanagan received $97,546 and $100,945 in 2023 and 2024 from his position as a lawmaker.
Since around October 2021, Flanagan has been facing financial difficulties, stealing $36,000 in funding from the Association of Home Builders through a bank’s wire transfer.
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Massachusetts Assemblyman Christopher Flanagan was arrested Friday. (Rep. Christopher Flanagan/Facebook and DOJ)
From November 18, 2021 and January 28, 2023, Flanagan was wired from $1,500 and $10,000 on several separate occasions.
The Justice Department said Flanagan used the funds to pay mortgage bills, pay off debts, and used it to also pay for personal mental services.
In its cost report, DOJ said Flanagan allegedly spent $159.36 on “technology services” on Best Buy and $537.26 on 4Imprint’s “Office Supplies,” but records show that money was used to buy Bluetooth speakers and t-shirts for his political campaign.
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A campaign mailer allegedly sent by Massachusetts Rep. Christopher Flanagan. (DOJ)
Another cost report shows $3,784.84 was spent on office supplies. However, the DOJ said $2,118.10 was spent on personal expenses for Best Buy, Macy’s and Target.
Federal authorities also alleged that Flanagan had hampered Massachusetts campaign and political finances investigations.
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Christopher Flanagan is said to have forged his expenses report.
Flanagan faces up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud charges and up to 20 years for tampering with record claims.
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Fox News Digital has asked Flanagan and his lawyer for comment.
Adam Sabes is a writer for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to adam.sabes @fox.com and twitter @asabes10.
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