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.