Short Description:
Federal prosecutors have charged two Haitian immigrants in Massachusetts for a multi-million dollar SNAP fraud scheme, spotlighting the gaps in retailer oversight rather than the benefit recipients.
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4 minutes and 25 seconds
Main Article:
In a significant development, federal authorities in Massachusetts have charged Antonio Bonheur, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Haiti, and Saul Alisme, a lawful permanent resident, in connection with an alleged $7 million fraud scheme involving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps. This indictment, unveiled in mid-December 2025, underscores serious concerns about the abuse of a program designed to assist low-income individuals and families in accessing essential nutrition.
The indictment reveals that the duo operated two small retail stores, the Jesula Variety Store and the Saul Maché Mixé Store, located in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood. These stores measured approximately 150 and 500 square feet, respectively, and maintained a minimal inventory of eligible food items. Despite their size, the businesses reportedly redeemed SNAP benefits ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 monthly—significantly higher than typical full-service supermarkets in the region. Investigators allege that both men exchanged SNAP benefits for cash, violating program rules intended to promote food security.
As the investigation unfolded, undercover agents documented repeated instances where customers swiped their SNAP cards only to receive cash instead of groceries. Additionally, the stores allegedly sold items not permitted under SNAP regulations—including alcohol—and occasionally resold food products that were donated for humanitarian purposes but not intended for retail. Authorities suggest that the proceeds from this scheme were funneled through multiple bank accounts to obscure their origins, indicating sophisticated operations behind the facade of legitimate businesses.
Both men have been charged with food stamp fraud, a serious offense that carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison along with fines reaching $250,000 if convicted. However, it’s important to note that they have not yet entered pleas, and all allegations remain unproven at this stage. Officials emphasized that this case highlights systemic vulnerabilities in SNAP retailer oversight rather than implicating broader communities, thereby clarifying that the charges relate to the actions of the defendants alone.
In light of this case, policymakers and stakeholders are urged to reevaluate existing SNAP oversight mechanisms. Enhanced scrutiny is crucial to prevent fraudulent practices that undermine the integrity of vital assistance programs aimed at combatting food insecurity in the United States.
Short Summary:
In summary, the recent indictment of two Haitian immigrants for a $7 million SNAP fraud emphasizes critical challenges in retailer oversight rather than widespread misconduct within communities. As investigations continue, the need for enhanced regulatory measures within SNAP is clearer than ever, aiming to protect the integrity of food assistance programs.
