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Federal prosecutors are seeking a two-year prison sentence for former Massachusetts state senator Dean Tran, who was convicted of illegally obtaining pandemic unemployment assistance and filing false tax returns. Tran, a Republican who served from 2017 to 2021, was found guilty last year on 20 counts of wire fraud and three counts of filing a false tax return.

Prosecutors Cite "Greed" as Central to Tran's Crimes

In a memorandum filed Monday, prosecutors argued that Tran exploited pandemic relief programs designed for individuals facing genuine economic hardship. Instead, Tran allegedly collected $30,120 in unemployment benefits while earning $120,000 annually as a consultant for an auto parts business in Nashua, New Hampshire.

"Greed was at the center of Tran's crimes as he callously broke the law to gain some advantage for himself," prosecutors wrote. They emphasized that Tran’s actions were deliberate and calculated, not the result of financial distress or a lapse in judgment.

Misuse of Pandemic Relief

The charges stem from Tran’s failure to disclose his consulting income while applying for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors highlighted Tran’s privileged position as a former lawmaker and successful businessman, stating he had "no mitigating circumstances" to justify his actions.

"As a public official, Tran was called to serve government, not to have it serve him in furtherance of his fraud schemes," prosecutors added.

Tax Fraud Allegations

In addition to the unemployment fraud, Tran was convicted of failing to report income from his consulting job and rental property. The government described the rental income as "lucrative" and supplemental to Tran’s already substantial earnings.

Defense Challenges Convictions

Tran’s attorney, Michael Walsh of Walsh & Walsh LLP, criticized the prosecution’s memorandum, stating it "does not line up with the facts, as we see it." Walsh said Tran maintains his innocence and plans to submit his own sentencing memorandum.

Tran previously attempted to overturn his conviction, alleging the government improperly removed non-white jurors during the trial. U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV rejected the claim in December, finding it lacked factual basis.

Broader Legal Troubles

Tran, who unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2022, faces unrelated state charges, including allegations of stealing an elderly woman’s firearm and lying to police. He has denied those allegations.

The government is represented by Dustin Chao and John Mulcahy of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts.