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Brendyn Andrew, a 34-year-old from Gaithersburg, Maryland, was the mastermind behind a SNAP benefits fraud scheme that involved misusing identities of over 30 individuals to obtain electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards. Between February and June 2021, Andrew used the Department of Human Services’ online system to apply for SNAP benefits, intentionally misrepresenting his identity. The scheme was uncovered during the execution of a search warrant in October 2022, where law enforcement found Andrew in possession of more than 15 EBT cards in the names of other individuals.
Andrew’s crimes didn’t stop at SNAP benefits fraud. He was also charged with possessing unauthorized access devices, aggravated identity theft, passport fraud, and tampering with a witness. In February 2025, a grand jury indicted Andrew, and a superseding indictment was returned in May 2025, charging him with additional crimes.
U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang sentenced Andrew to 54 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Andrew was also ordered to pay $41,699.79 in restitution. The prosecution was part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, and was announced by U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Kelly O. Hayes, along with Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker of the USDA-OIG and Special Agent in Charge David Richeson of the DSS.
The sentence marks the end of a lengthy investigation and prosecution, and serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit the system for personal gain. Andrew’s case is a prime example of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies in preventing and prosecuting fraud.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Maryland
- Location: MD
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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