Massachusetts Lawmaker Faces Charges in Embezzlement Case Involving Former Employer
A Massachusetts state representative has been arrested and charged with embezzlement in connection with funds allegedly taken from a former employer, according to federal prosecutors. The arrest marks the latest in a series of legal challenges facing public officials in the state this week.
Chris Flanagan, who represents parts of Cape Cod in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, was taken into custody Friday morning. Federal authorities allege that Flanagan misappropriated over $36,000 during his time as executive officer of the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod, a position he held prior to his election to the legislature.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Flanagan is accused of using the funds for personal expenses including clothing, household appliances, credit card payments, and even services from a psychic. Officials also claim that a portion of the money—around $10,000—was diverted to support his 2023 reelection campaign during a competitive race.
The charges follow an investigation that revealed irregularities in financial reports submitted to state regulators. Prosecutors say Flanagan attempted to justify the funds as reimbursement and reported the $10,000 as a campaign loan, despite his personal bank account showing only $42.28 shortly before the transaction.
In total, the money was reportedly used for a variety of personal purchases, including children’s toys, dress shirts, ties, and an electric dryer. Investigators say the pattern of spending coincided with mounting financial strain, including mortgage difficulties and significant credit card debt starting in late 2021.
Flanagan had previously been fined for violating campaign finance rules during an earlier race, where he created a political group under a misleading name and used a pseudonym to solicit contributions.
His arrest comes just one day after another Massachusetts official, Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, stepped down after pleading guilty to unrelated financial misconduct charges. Both cases are being handled by federal prosecutors.
Governor Maura Healey and other state officials have called for Flanagan’s resignation in light of the charges. If he does not step down voluntarily, legislative leaders may initiate an internal review through the House Ethics Committee.
At the time of the alleged embezzlement, Flanagan was earning more than $97,000 annually as a state representative, in addition to receiving over $81,000 from his leadership position at the Cape Cod-based organization.
Authorities say the case highlights the importance of financial accountability and oversight in public service roles. The investigation remains ongoing.