Boston Social Worker Accused of Posing as Foster Child

Shelby Hewitt, 32, faces multiple charges for allegedly enrolling in high schools under false identities while maintaining her job with the Department of Children and Families.

32-year-old Shelby Hewitt, a former social worker, is facing multiple charges including forgery, identity fraud, and larceny over $1,200 for allegedly posing as a foster child under government care and enrolling in three Boston high schools.
Hewitt is accused of creating multiple names and dates of birth for herself and creating a false narrative of being a traumatized teen with special needs.
While posing as a teen, Hewitt allegedly continued her job as a social worker with the Department of Children and Families, collecting a salary of $54,000.
Hewitt's defense attorney, Timothy Flaherty, attributes the incidents to mental health issues, stating that Hewitt has had a lifelong history of mental health challenges.
Hewitt pleaded not guilty and was released on $5,000 bail under the condition of staying away from schools and anyone under 18 years old. Her trial is scheduled for fall 2024.