Four Charged in $1.1 Million SNAP Fraud Scheme

Naturalized citizen and three foreign nationals accused of stealing identities to obtain government benefits

Feb. 7, 2026 at 6:55pm

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Federal prosecutors in Massachusetts have charged four individuals - one naturalized U.S. citizen and three foreign nationals - with orchestrating a $1.1 million fraud scheme involving stolen identities to obtain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) funds across multiple states.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing problem of public benefits fraud, which costs taxpayers millions each year. It also raises questions about immigration status and the vulnerabilities in government assistance programs that allow such large-scale fraud to occur.

The details

The defendants allegedly used over 115 stolen identities to submit fraudulent SNAP and PUA applications, resulting in over $1.1 million in illicit benefits. They are accused of using the SNAP funds to purchase bulk food items that were then resold at their restaurant, El Primo, for a profit. The PUA funds were deposited into bank accounts controlled by the group.

  • Between 2023 and 2025, the defendants submitted online SNAP applications in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
  • From April 2020 to December 2021, the defendants submitted fraudulent PUA applications in six states.

The players

Raul Fernandez Vicioso

A 37-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen from the Dominican Republic and owner of El Primo Restaurant in Leominster.

Joel Vicioso Fernandez

A 42-year-old green card holder from the Dominican Republic.

Roman Vequiz Fernandez

A 32-year-old Venezuelan national who previously held temporary protected status but no longer has lawful status.

Coralba Albarracin Siniva

A 24-year-old Venezuelan national who previously held temporary protected status but no longer has lawful status.

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What they’re saying

“It is no secret there is rampant fraud across this nation. The charges announced today are just a snapshot of the bigger picture, not just in Massachusetts but across the country.”

— Leah Foley, U.S. Attorney

“You should anticipate seeing more and more of these cases coming here in Massachusetts.”

— Leah Foley, U.S. Attorney

What’s next

Prosecutors say they will continue to investigate and prosecute public benefits fraud cases, with the addition of a new fraud coordinator in Massachusetts.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and security measures in government assistance programs to prevent large-scale fraud and abuse, which can divert critical resources away from those truly in need.