Walt Disney World

LaMar D. Cook, 46, a former deputy director in Governor Maura Healey's western Massachusetts office, was arrested on federal charges of SNAP fraud and wire fraud. Prosecutors allege Cook falsely claimed zero income and less than $100 in savings to collect $500 a month in federal food assistance, despite bank balances ranging from roughly $8,800 to $13,000 and about $12,000 in payments from his mother, who won approximately $1 million in the Massachusetts Lottery earlier this year. Cook previously defended his benefits use after reports he spent SNAP funds near Walt Disney World, calling it a mix of vacation pay, lottery winnings, and EBT benefits.

Cook already faces state gun and drug trafficking charges after his October arrest, when police allegedly seized about 17 pounds of cocaine destined for the state building where he worked, along with drug residue found in his office. He has pleaded not guilty. Healey, who fired Cook after his arrest and is running for reelection, said she wishes he had never been hired. The state is separately suing to recover over $31,000 in vacation payouts made to him.