A Colombian woman residing unlawfully in Boston has been indicted on charges of identity theft, voter fraud, and federal benefit fraud. Lina Maria Orovio-Hernandez, 59, is accused of living under a stolen identity for over two decades. She allegedly received approximately $400,000 in federal benefits through fraudulent means.
Orovio-Hernandez faces multiple charges including false representation of a Social Security number, making false statements in a passport application, aggravated identity theft, receiving stolen government money or property, fraudulent voter registration, and fraudulent voting. She was initially charged in February 2025 and has remained in custody since then.
According to court documents, Orovio-Hernandez used the stolen identity to obtain nine state IDs and apply for a U.S. passport. She also allegedly registered to vote fraudulently in January 2023 and voted illegally in the November 2024 presidential election.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: “For more than 20 years, this defendant is alleged to have built an entire life on the foundation of a stolen identity – including illegally voting in our presidential election and collecting hundreds of thousands of dollars in government benefits intended for Americans in need."
Matthew O’Brien from the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service commented on their role: “Our special agents work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement partners to detect and stop fraud when criminals attempt to unlawfully obtain and use passports."
Amy Connelly from the Social Security Administration's Office of Inspector General emphasized the misuse of Social Security benefits: “Stealing someone’s identity to unlawfully obtain Social Security benefits is not just theft—it’s a long-term abuse of a system meant to support those truly in need.”
Shawn Rice from HUD highlighted the misuse of housing funds: “These critical housing funds support the most vulnerable populations... HUD OIG remains steadfast in its commitment...to aggressively pursue those who engage in activities that threaten the integrity of HUD programs.”
The charges carry significant penalties including prison time, fines up to $250,000 per charge, supervised release periods, and potential deportation after serving any sentence imposed.
U.S. Attorney Foley made the announcement along with representatives from several agencies involved in investigating the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg is prosecuting.
The allegations remain unproven until established beyond reasonable doubt in court.
