FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP MAN INDICTED IN CASE INVOLVING DEATH AND BENEFITS FRAUD

FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Steven M. Blankenship, 58, of Fairfield Township, has been indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges after authorities allege he concealed his cousin’s death and continued collecting the deceased’s benefits for personal use. Charges against Blankenship include desecration of human remains, theft by deception, fraudulent use of a credit card, and tampering with evidence. The investigation began in April when New Jersey State Police responded to a welfare check at a residence in Tips Trailer Park. Upon entering, troopers located a body wrapped in plastic and sealed in a bedroom closet. Reports state that the door knob had been removed and the entrance sealed with electrical tape. Evidence recovered at the residence included a handwritten note dated July 27, 2024, believed to be written by Blankenship, referencing the death and indicating the body had remained on the floor for two days before being moved to the closet. Authorities found indications that the deceased’s government benefits continued to pay household bills following the death. Official records show Blankenship is accused of acquiring nearly $14,000 in state benefits over eight months, in addition to using the deceased’s credit card for personal expenses. Blankenship remains in custody pending further court proceedings. The case continues to work its way through Cumberland County Superior Court.