New York State Police: Man faked son’s death, scammed co-workers

JEFFERSON COUNTY, N.Y. – A father accused of faking his son’s death and accepting donations for his funeral is facing additional criminal charges.

Kalen Stevens, 30, was arrested last month for defrauding at least two people. He allegedly accepted $1,500 for expenses related to his child’s death. State Police say Stevens told people his son had died from leukemia in August and that he needed money for his funeral. Troopers say he made up the story to garner sympathy and money.

On Nov. 1, Stevens was arrested and charged with felony fourth-degree grand larceny and felony first-degree scheme to defraud.

An administrative assistant for FineLine Constructors LLC. told State Police that Stevens, while working there, began having breakdowns at work, telling co-workers his son had become sick and died and that he and his family did not have enough money to pay for his funeral expenses. Co-workers gave him cash and made online donations, and Stevens pocketed $1,070, according to police. The business also paid him bereavement time.

Stevens was issued an appearance ticket for later this month.

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