Former Gov. Maura Healey aide LaMar Cook was arrested by federal authorities in Massachusetts on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, and charged with SNAP and wire fraud, according to the U.S. attorney’s office. Prosecutors allege he concealed income and assets to receive about $500 a month in food assistance. Cook applied for benefits on April 6, claiming he had no income and less than $100 in his bank account, according to a criminal affidavit filed by U.S. Department of Agriculture special agent Todd Bucci. The account allegedly held more than $8,800 at the time. Prosecutors also say Cook received thousands of dollars in vacation pay from the state and about $12,000 in Zelle transfers from his mother that summer. The allegations concern benefits intended to help eligible households afford food. U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement that the program is for families struggling to make ends meet, not people who allegedly hide income to qualify. Cook’s listed public defender, Scott Lauer, declined to comment. The case also raises questions about information Cook provided about his household. Prosecutors say he reported living alone with a minor child, while living with his fiancée, who earned more than $80,000 a year working for Springfield Public Schools. Massachusetts SNAP guidance generally requires applicants to report a spouse and children under 22; court documents say other people must also be included when they prepare meals together. Bucci alleged the fiancée’s income should have been disclosed and could have affected Cook’s eligibility. Cook, a former Western Massachusetts deputy director in Healey’s office, earned an annual state salary of $130,227 before he was fired. After his termination, he received more than $30,000 in accrued vacation pay. State officials have said the payment was made in error, and Attorney General Andrea Campbell sued in January to recover the money. Foley’s office said the state attempted to reverse the deposits but could not because the accounts lacked sufficient funds. Cook is also facing state charges related to alleged cocaine and firearms trafficking. Prosecutors in that case say authorities intercepted deliveries of nearly 50 pounds of cocaine to a state-owned building in Springfield and a hotel linked to him. Cook has pleaded not guilty to those charges. Healey spokesperson Jacqueline Manning said Cook had abused the public’s trust and should be held accountable. Cook was expected to appear in Boston federal court on Wednesday. The federal allegations have not been proven in court.