Illegal Immigrant Stole ID of U.S. Citizen for 37 Years, Got $361,000 in Benefits

An illegal immigrant from Mexico on Thursday admitted to stealing the identity of an American citizen for 37 years and receiving $361,000 in federal, state and local government benefits, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Andres Avelino Anduaga, 66, assumed the identity of Abraham Riojos in 1980, and in the process obtained a fraudulent birth certificate, a California driver's license, Social Security number and passport. He was able to go back and forth without restriction between Mexico and the U.S. with the documents, and was allegedly traveling multiple times per week.

Anduaga, who faces up to 12 years in prison, agreed to pay full restitution but could face additional fines.

"The programs that this defendant stole from – for decades – provide benefits to America's most needy. This prosecution demonstrates the commitment of the United States Attorney's Office to protecting the integrity of our welfare programs and punishing those who prey on the goodwill of our nation and its taxpayers," said U.S Attorney Adam Braverman according to Fox San Diego.

Investigators uncovered Antigua's scheme in 2014 during a standard review to determine whether he was still eligible for benefits. Authorities eventually tracked down the real Abraham Riojos to Immokalee, Fla.   

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