Federal Agents Arrest 15 in Massachusetts Over $1.4 Million Benefits Fraud

2 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 18

Fifteen people were arrested in Massachusetts, including 11 suspected illegal immigrants, on allegations they stole more than $1.4 million from SNAP, MassHealth, Social Security disability, housing and unemployment programs.
Authorities said the schemes relied on false statements and stolen identities; one defendant, Heriberto Rodriguez of Framingham, is accused of more than $546,000 in fraud across four benefit programs.
Justice Department officials said the fraud also blocked legitimate recipients, with some Americans unable to access benefits because their identities had already been used by suspects.
U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said the arrests are part of a broader Massachusetts crackdown that has charged more than 65 defendants since January, alleging $56 million in losses and roughly $63 million over seven months.
Federal investigators, backed by Homeland Security Investigations and inspector general offices, said more arrests and charges are coming as the nationwide benefits-fraud sweep expands.