Man accused of faking mental impairment to collect benefits

For nearly 20 years — ever since Pete Costello was 8 — his mother has collected disability benefits on his behalf. In meetings with Social Security officials and psychologists, he appeared mentally impaired and unable to communicate. His mother insisted he couldn't read or write, shower, care for himself or drive.

Pete Costello sat in court Tuesday, saying nothing, but showing no outward sign he is mentally impaired. He works as an auto-body repairman and lives with a girlfriend and two of her children, prosecutors said.

Read the whole story in the Seattle Times.