Antonio J. Toves and Christina J. Toves, a couple from Chalan Pago, Guam, have been sentenced to federal prison on charges of fraud, drug possession, and illegal firearms possession. United States Attorney Shawn N. Anderson confirmed their sentencing at the District Court of Guam on April 23, 2025.
Antonio Toves, aged 48, was sentenced to two consecutive terms: 12 months and a day for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and unauthorized use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, alongside 36 months for methamphetamine possession with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. His additional penalties include four years of supervised release, $40,869 in restitution, $400 in special assessment fees, and the forfeiture of firearms and a Lexus vehicle.
Christina Toves, aged 47, received a sentence of 12 months and a day for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, unauthorized use of SNAP benefits, and illegal firearms possession. Her sentence also includes three years of supervised release, $40,869 in restitution, $300 in special assessment fees, as well as the forfeiture of firearms, ammunition, and a Lexus vehicle.
The couple's fraudulent activities spanned from September 2015 to September 2020, during which they misled the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) to acquire unentitled SNAP benefits. They falsified details about their household and income and concealed Christina Toves's employment at the Guam Department of Corrections.
Upon arrest, Antonio Toves was found with over five grams of methamphetamine, two pistols, an AR-15 rifle, and more than 800 rounds of ammunition. Christina Toves possessed a concealed handgun at the time.
United States Attorney Anderson stressed the importance of prosecuting SNAP fraud cases to ensure proper use of federal funds, stating, “Citizens with low income rely on SNAP benefits to meet their nutritional needs.” He added that such fraudulent conduct, combined with drug-related offenses, can result in severe federal penalties.
ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais remarked on the broader cost implications of the Toves' actions, emphasizing that this should serve as a deterrent against similar illegal activities.
The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Guam DPHSS Investigation & Recovery Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin K. Petersburg managed the prosecution.