DOJ announced 15 arrests tied to alleged fraud involving SNAP, MassHealth, and Social Security disability/unemployment benefits. The release says the cases include stolen identities and aggravated identity theft allegations.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts announced arrests connected to an ongoing effort to root out exploitation of public benefits. In the release, DOJ described 15 arrests tied to alleged fraud impacting programs including SNAP, MassHealth, and Social Security disability and unemployment benefits. Prosecutors allege that the scheme(s) involved using fraudulent information to qualify for or obtain government assistance. A significant component highlighted by DOJ is the alleged use of stolen identities. The release also references aggravated identity theft allegations, signaling that investigators believe identity information was not merely falsified but obtained or used in a way that triggered enhanced charges. By combining benefit fraud with identity theft, such cases can involve multiple layers: the procurement of identities, the submission of applications or claims, and potentially ongoing deception to maintain eligibility. From a consumer-protection perspective, these are not typical “scams” that target one individual via a call center; they are crimes that manipulate eligibility systems that were designed to help people in need. When fraudsters abuse these programs, legitimate recipients can face scrutiny or administrative changes, and public resources are diverted away from intended beneficiaries. DOJ’s announcement indicates that federal prosecutors and investigators treat benefit fraud as a major enforcement priority and pursue accountability through coordinated arrests and charges.