A federal grand jury has indicted Brendyn Andrew, a 33-year-old resident of Gaithersburg, Maryland. The charges against Andrew include aggravated identity theft, SNAP benefits fraud, social security number misuse, and theft of government property. His initial court appearance is scheduled for today at 4:30 p.m. in the U.S. District Court in Greenbelt before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gina L. Simms.
The indictment was announced by Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, along with Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the USDA OIG Northeast Region. In Maryland, SNAP benefit funds are provided by the United States Department of Agriculture and managed through the Maryland Department of Human Services' Family Investment Administration.
According to the indictment details, Andrew allegedly misused social security numbers belonging to two individuals to apply for and utilize SNAP benefits within Maryland from February through June 2021.
If convicted, Andrew faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years imprisonment for aggravated identity theft and up to ten years for theft of government property. However, sentences for federal crimes often fall below maximum penalties as they are determined by a federal district court judge who considers U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. It is important to note that an indictment does not equate to guilt; individuals charged remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in subsequent criminal proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the United States Department of Agriculture for their role in the investigation and extended thanks to the Montgomery County Police Department for its assistance. Special acknowledgment was given to Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kertisha Dixon who is handling prosecution duties.
Further information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office and its community resources can be accessed via www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.