California Woman Caught in a Web of False Claims
LOS ANGELES – Brandy Iglesias, a 43‑year‑old California resident, has been arrested after being indicted for stealing more than US$145,000 (S$207,000) in bogus unemployment benefits. The twist? She used the names of infamous killers, Scott Peterson and Cary Stayner, to cover her tracks.
How the Scheme Worked
Iglesias was employed at a private firm that had a contract with San Quentin State Prison. In that role, she may have had access to the personal data of inmates, including Peterson and Stayner. Using those details, she set up fake claims and siphoned off the funds between April 2020 and September 2021.
Who Were the Victims?
- Scott Peterson – 49‑year‑old, convicted in 2004 for murdering his pregnant wife and unborn child on Christmas Eve in Modesto, California.
- Cary Stayner – 61‑year‑old, found guilty of killing four women near Yosemite National Park in 1999, and sentenced to death.
It’s unclear if Brandy physically met either of them; she’s been held since last week after a joint investigation.
Legal Fallout
In court Wednesday, Brandy’s first appearance took place, and she was placed under a US$20,000 bond. Investigators are still figuring out whether she’s retained an attorney.
Prosecutor’s Take
California Attorney General Rob Bonta remarked, “Don’t let the infamous names distract you from who this crime really hurt – the most vulnerable in our society.”
He underscored that the victims are not the notorious killers but the people who would have depended on the benefits if the fraud had not occurred.
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