Full Breakdown
Allegations of $7 Million SNAP Fraud in Mattapan
12/17/2025, 11:49:28 PM
Overview of the Allegations
Antonio Bonheur, 74, and Saul Alsime, 24, both store owners in Mattapan, Massachusetts, have been arrested for allegedly engaging in a $7 million Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit trafficking scheme. U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley stated that the defendants exchanged SNAP benefits for cash, exploiting a critical government safety net program for personal financial gain. The stores, Jesula Variety Store and Saul Mache Mixe Store, are located in the same building on Blue Hill Avenue.
Details of the Scheme
According to court documents, Bonheur began accepting SNAP benefits in September 2021, while Alsime started in March 2025. Investigations revealed that Jesula Variety Store redeemed between three and six times the average SNAP benefits of a legitimate supermarket in the area, which typically redeems about $80,000 monthly. In contrast, Jesula reportedly redeemed significantly more, raising suspicions of fraud. Alsime’s store redeemed over $120,000 in SNAP benefits in just six months.
Undercover officers conducted transactions at both stores, purchasing items and exchanging SNAP benefits for cash. For instance, an undercover officer exchanged $120 in SNAP benefits for $100 in cash at Alsime's store. Notably, the scheme involved selling MannaPack rice, a product intended for food-insecure children, which is not available for retail sale.
Broader Implications and Context
The alleged fraud comes at a critical time for Massachusetts, where Governor Maura Healey has been vocal about the negative impacts of reduced SNAP benefits during a recent government shutdown. Healey's administration had reported suspicious activities related to these stores to federal authorities over a year ago. She emphasized her commitment to prosecuting fraud in federal programs, stating, “I will always support prosecution to the fullest extent of the law for anyone who engages in fraud or abuse.”
Despite the significant amount involved in this case, it represents a small fraction of the over $230 million Massachusetts receives monthly for SNAP benefits. The state has a low SNAP fraud rate, with less than one-tenth of one percent of benefits being misappropriated, according to Vicky Negus, a senior advocate at the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute.
Criticism of Oversight
Foley criticized the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) for its lack of oversight, claiming that the department conducted minimal due diligence when reviewing Bonheur's application for SNAP benefits. The DTA has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these allegations. The case has drawn attention to the vulnerabilities in the SNAP system, particularly the ease with which benefits can be trafficked without adequate safeguards.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These defendants exchanged SNAP benefits for cash, which they pocketed.” — Leah B. Foley, U.S. Attorney
- “These products are not for sale anywhere. Yet Bonheur and Alsime were selling them in their stores for nearly $10 a pack.” — Leah B. Foley, U.S. Attorney
- “As a former Attorney General and now Governor, I will always support prosecution to the fullest extent of the law for anyone who engages in fraud or abuse of a federal program or any program,” — Maura Healey, Governor of Massachusetts
Conclusion
The case against Bonheur and Alsime highlights significant concerns regarding the integrity of the SNAP program and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in place. As investigations continue, the implications of this alleged fraud extend beyond the immediate legal consequences, raising questions about the management of vital food assistance programs in the state.
