A Worcester man has been charged with using the identity of a deceased U.S. citizen to obtain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, according to an April 3 announcement from federal authorities.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by the United States Attorney’s Office to investigate and prosecute fraud involving federal and state assistance programs. Officials allege that John Doe, whose true identity is believed to be that of a 57-year-old Dominican Republic citizen unlawfully present in the United States, used fraudulent documents to receive government aid.
Charging documents state that since at least 2001, Doe lived in Massachusetts under the name of a Puerto Rican citizen who died in 2006. Authorities allege he obtained identification cards and a Social Security card under this false identity. Court records also show that Doe was previously convicted under this stolen identity for assault and drug offenses in Worcester Superior Court in September 2012, resulting in lengthy prison sentences.
After his release from prison in January 2022, officials say Doe applied for SNAP benefits using the same stolen identity. In April 2022, during his application process with the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), an employee noted concerns about his Social Security number matching a deceased person but ultimately approved his application. From April 2022 through February 2026, it is alleged he received approximately $12,623 in SNAP benefits.
Doe faces charges of unlawfully obtaining SNAP benefits and misrepresenting a Social Security number. The first charge carries up to 20 years in prison and significant fines; the second carries up to five years imprisonment. Sentencing will be determined by a federal judge if there is a conviction.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley announced these charges along with other federal law enforcement officials involved in the investigation. “The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law,” Foley said.
