Massachusetts Rep. Flanagan Arrested on Fraud Charges

BOSTON, Mass. — Massachusetts State Representative Chris Flanagan was arrested Friday morning after a federal grand jury indicted him on charges of wire fraud and falsifying records. The indictment alleges that Flanagan orchestrated a scheme to defraud the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of Cape Cod, where he served as executive officer from 2019 to 2024, to fund personal and political expenses.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Massachusetts announced that Flanagan is scheduled to appear in federal court in Boston at 2:30 p.m. Friday. The charges were pursued following an investigation that began with a complaint received in October 2022.

U.S. Attorney Leah Foley criticized Flanagan, stating, “Today’s charges against Massachusetts State Representative Christopher Flanagan reveal an appalling breach of public trust. He allegedly funneled tens of thousands of dollars into his own pockets to pay off personal bills, buy luxury items, and bankroll his political campaign. This alleged scheme was calculated on every level.”

Flanagan’s attorney did not offer immediate comment regarding the arrest. However, Gov. Maura Healey called for his resignation, stating in a statement, “These are serious allegations that threaten to undermine the important work of the Legislature and cast doubt on his ability to faithfully serve his constituents.”

Flanagan, who won re-election in November with 56% of the vote against Republican Gerald Joseph O’Connell, had already faced questions regarding his campaign finances prior to the recent indictment.

Campaign finance regulators previously determined that Flanagan had violated campaign finance laws, resulting in the Flanagan campaign purging $10,580 in excess contributions while also paying a $6,000 penalty. Flanagan personally agreed to pay an additional $9,000 in penalties.

The indictment outlines that Flanagan’s alleged criminal conduct began in November 2021, approximately a year before he was elected to the House. Prosecutors claim he stole $36,000 from the trade association’s accounts via multiple wire transfers, primarily utilizing these funds for personal expenses, including mortgage payments and credit card debts. Notably, $10,000 allegedly taken on January 28, 2023, was utilized to finance his successful state representative campaign.

Foley’s office highlighted that Flanagan’s bank statements demonstrate a troubling financial situation, revealing that he would not have been able to issue a campaign check without the alleged theft of funds.

If convicted, Flanagan faces up to 20 years in prison on each count of wire fraud and falsification of records, along with potential fines totaling up to $500,000.

House Speaker Ronald Mariano expressed concern over the allegations but emphasized the importance of due process, stating, “While every American is entitled to due process, the charges that have been brought against Representative Flanagan are extraordinarily concerning and undermine public trust in the Legislature.” He noted that the House would monitor the situation closely.

House Minority Leader Bradley Jones added, “Representative Flanagan has betrayed his oath of office, and I am urging him to do the right thing for his constituents by resigning immediately.”