Massachusetts State Representative Francisco Paulino has been arrested and charged with 11 federal counts connected to alleged fraud involving COVID-19 unemployment and loan-relief programmes, as well as money laundering. Prosecutors allege he obtained funds intended to support people and businesses during the pandemic, making the case significant because it concerns alleged misuse of public emergency aid by an elected official.

US Attorney Leah Foley said Paulino allegedly sought more than $700,000 in relief funding, initially using an unwitting 77-year-old relative’s details in 2020. Authorities claim some money was used for personal real-estate and loan expenses, transfers to his campaign account, and loans to others at higher interest rates; the arrest follows similar recent charges against Lawrence Mayor Brian DePeña.