A Dominican national living illegally in Massachusetts was sentenced for stealing SNAP benefits and fraudulently using a US citizen’s Social Security number.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Justice, Chief Judge Denise Casper sentenced Victor Suazo Reynoso, 69, to one year and one day in prison, followed by two years of supervised release. Reynoso was also sentenced to pay restitution of $18,434 to the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance and $54,931 to MassHealth. After serving the sentence, the defendant faces deportation. In May 2026, the defendant pled guilty to illegally obtaining supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits and falsely representing a Social Security number. Reynoso was charged and arrested in March 2026.
Reynoso applied for and received a Massachusetts driver’s license, as well as over $18,000 in SNAP and $54,000 in MassHealth benefits, using a US citizen’s name, birthday, and Social Security number. SNAP is a federal program operated by states that helps low-income people and families buy food. MassHealth is a federal and state program that offers medical benefits to low-income people.
United States Attorney Leah Foley and Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England, made the statement. Assistant United States Attorney David Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
On March 26, 2026, Foley announced the formation of the Benefit & Voter Fraud Team, a district-wide initiative established in response to the widespread fraud being discovered throughout Massachusetts. Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected benefit fraud in Massachusetts by calling 1-855-SCAM-MA-1 (855-722-6621).
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the formation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The Fraud Division investigates and prosecutes individuals who perpetrate fraud against the American people.