US man 'posed as his dead mother'

A New York man has been arrested for impersonating his dead mother in order to claim $115,000 (£70,500) in social security benefits and rent subsidies.

Thomas Prusik-Parkin, allegedly depicted on left disguised as his dead mother, with alleged accomplice Mhilton Rimolo (picture: Kings County District Attorney's office)

Mr Prusik-Parkin is allegedly shown here (left) impersonating his mother

Thomas Prusik-Parkin, 49, is accused by prosecutors of regularly dressing up in a wig, dress and make-up in order to fool the authorities.

He faces charges of theft, forgery and conspiracy.

The alleged scam has been going on ever since Mr Prusik-Parkin's mother, Irene Prusik, died in 2003 at the age of 73.

"I held my mother when she was dying and breathed in her last breath, so I am my mother," Mr Prusik-Parkin said when he was arrested, according to police.