The former mayor of Wildwood has admitted to illegally taking state health benefits, according to published reports.

He admitted guilt Sept. 27 in court to theft by unlawful taking, filing a fraudulent tax return, and falsifying or tampering with records.

On March 29, 2023, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced that former Wildwood, New Jersey Mayor Pete Byron was indicted over alleged participation in the New Jersey state health insurance program. At the time, Platkin said:

A former mayor of Wildwood admitted to his role in a healthcare fraud scheme that stole more than $600,000 in government funds, authorities said. Peter Byron, 68, pleaded guilty to three charges on Friday,

Former Wildwood mayor Peter Byron, 68, has pleaded guilty to charges involved with a healthcare fraud scam that, officials said, 'saddled New Jersey residents with a six-figure bill.'