A multi-state fraud operation targeting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been uncovered, leading to federal charges against seventeen individuals accused of orchestrating a $2.4 million scheme to defraud the United States government. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon announced the charges following a coordinated law enforcement operation conducted on October 22.
The criminal organization is alleged to have used skimming devices and stolen Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) accounts to purchase large quantities of SNAP-eligible items such as infant formula and energy drinks, which were later resold on the black market. The fraud scheme spanned over a year, from August 2023 to October 2024, and involved illicit activity across Oregon, Washington, and California.
According to court documents, the operation was spearheaded by Ramirez Dumitru, who, along with his co-conspirators, utilized skimming devices to capture EBT account information from unsuspecting SNAP recipients. These devices, typically placed on card readers at point-of-sale terminals, allowed the group to collect account details and create counterfeit EBT cards. The stolen benefits were then used to purchase over 120,000 pounds of SNAP-approved goods, including nonperishable food items.
The purchased goods were stored at various residential properties and storage units in Oregon and Washington before being transported to California. Authorities believe that both private vehicles and commercial shipping carriers were used to move the illegally obtained products, which were eventually sold on the black market. Investigators estimate the total value of the fraudulently acquired SNAP benefits to exceed $2.4 million.
The seventeen individuals facing charges were arrested during a series of coordinated raids on October 22, which took place without any reported incidents. The suspects were taken into custody and have made their initial appearances in federal courts located in Oregon, Washington, and California. All defendants have been arraigned, with trial proceedings set to occur in the District of Oregon. Additional suspects linked to the operation may also face charges as the investigation continues.
The complex investigation was a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General (USDA OIG), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the U.S. Marshals Service. Local law enforcement agencies also played a critical role, with participation from the Portland Police Bureau, Oregon Department of Justice, Vancouver Police Department, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office, and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, among others.
The investigation was part of a larger initiative to combat SNAP-related fraud, which affects millions of low-income families relying on the program for food assistance. The U.S. government has increased efforts in recent years to detect and dismantle fraud schemes involving federal benefits programs, particularly those utilizing sophisticated techniques like skimming devices.
The case highlights the persistent challenge of SNAP fraud, which has been a longstanding issue in the United States. The use of technology, such as skimming devices, to steal benefits underscores the need for enhanced security measures in the distribution of federal aid. Law enforcement agencies continue to work on developing new strategies to detect and prevent similar schemes from occurring in the future.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of safeguarding EBT accounts, advising recipients to regularly monitor their account activity and report any suspicious transactions. The arrests signal a significant step toward holding those who exploit public assistance programs accountable, as the government seeks to protect taxpayer dollars and ensure resources reach those in genuine need.
As the legal process unfolds, the defendants face serious penalties if convicted, including potential prison sentences and restitution payments. The ongoing investigation may lead to further charges as authorities continue to trace the breadth of the operation and identify other participants involved in the fraud.
