Octomom Nadya Suleman Pleads Not Guilty to Welfare Fraud Charges

Mother of 14 is facing one count of aid by misrepresentation and two counts of perjury by false application for aid

Octomom pleaded not guilty to welfare fraud charges in Los Angeles Superior court on Friday, Jan. 17.

Nadya Suleman was released on her own recognizance at her arraignment and did not speak to reporters, per ABC News.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced on Monday, Jan. 13, that Suleman is facing one count of aid by misrepresentation and two counts of perjury by false application for aid. She was charged on Monday, Jan. 6.

If convicted, the mother of 14 faces up to five years and eight months in custody.

According to the complaint, Suleman filed for public assistance in Lancaster in January 2013.

"While applying for public aid, the mother of 14 children allegedly failed to disclose that she was also getting checks for personal appearances and residuals from videos," according to a statement from the DA's office. "She allegedly failed to report the extra income she earned between Jan. 1, 2013, and June 30, 2013."

Deputy District Attorney Bill Clark said following the arraignment that the case will go to disposition court and authorities will do whatever they can to avoid going to trial.