BEACHWOOD — An Ocean County woman is accused of posing as her deceased mother to collect more than $217,000 in union pension and annuity benefits, according to the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
Kristen G. Arntz, 54, of Beachwood, was indicted on two counts of second-degree theft by deception and three counts of third-degree forgery, authorities announced.
Investigators allege Arntz received $97,139 from the Ironworkers Local 11 pension fund and another $120,700 from its annuity fund between January 2021 and July 2025 following her mother’s death.
Authorities say Arntz concealed the death from the union and took control of her mother’s bank account, allowing benefit payments to continue. She also allegedly submitted forged letters under her mother’s name seeking advance payments from the annuity fund.
Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said the alleged theft targeted funds intended to provide financial security for workers. Interim Division of Criminal Justice Director Martha Nye said the alleged conduct diverted money from programs employees depend on.
Second-degree offenses carry potential penalties of up to 10 years in state prison and a $150,000 fine. Third-degree offenses carry potential penalties of up to five years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Deputy Attorney General Lindsey Watson is prosecuting the case for the division’s Fraud Unit.
The investigation continues. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call the Division of Criminal Justice tip line at 800-277-2427.
The charges are accusations. Artnz is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
