Andrea Perez, Social Security Benefits Misuse, Massachusetts 2021

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Crime on the Rise: Local Woman Indicted for Stealing Thousands in Government Benefits

BOSTON – In a shocking turn of events, Andrea Perez, a 48-year-old Dominican national, pleaded guilty to stealing thousands of dollars in government benefits. Perez, who used a Puerto Rican citizen’s identity to obtain benefits, has been under investigation since February 2021.

According to court documents, Perez applied for and obtained Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) housing assistance benefits as well as disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. The benefits, which were obtained under false pretenses, totaled $17,380 in Section 8 housing assistance benefits and $12,570 in fraudulent Social Security benefits.

The charges against Perez include false representation of a Social Security number and theft of government money. Perez could face up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater.

The investigation, which was led by the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, in conjunction with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, uncovered a web of deceit and corruption that has left many wondering how such a scheme could have gone undetected for so long.

Perez’s sentencing is scheduled for December 21, 2021. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting government benefits and the severe consequences that await those who seek to exploit the system.

In a statement, Acting United States Attorney Nathaniel R. Mendell commended the efforts of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, for their tireless work in bringing this case to justice.

Andrea Perez’s actions are a slap in the face to those who truly need government benefits. Her sentence should serve as a warning to others who would seek to follow in her footsteps.