Massachusetts State Representative Christopher Flanagan has been arrested and charged with five counts of wire fraud and one count of falsifying records, accused of stealing $36,000 from the Cape Cod Home Builders Association (HBA) to cover personal and political expenses, including psychic services. Despite holding two jobs and earning over $180,000 annually, Flanagan faced serious financial troubles, including credit card debt and mortgage delinquencies.

Federal prosecutors allege he conducted five wire transfers from November 2021 to January 2023 and created fake personas to cover up the theft. U.S. Attorney Leah Foley condemned the betrayal of public trust, emphasizing that elected officials must be held accountable. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and IRS Criminal Investigation are actively involved in the probe. Flanagan pleaded not guilty and was released pending trial.

Wire fraud and falsification of records each carry potential penalties of up to 20 years in prison, fines up to $250,000, and supervised release. The investigation remains ongoing.