Former Healey Aide LaMar Cook Pleads Not Guilty to Federal Fraud Charges
The 46-year-old ex-deputy director faces SNAP and wire fraud counts while awaiting a separate decision on cocaine trafficking charges.
By Julia Wang ·
LaMar Cook pleaded not guilty to federal charges of SNAP fraud and wire fraud on Monday afternoon. Cook, 46, appeared in the Moakley Federal Court in Boston’s Seaport district for his arraignment. He was formerly the Western Mass. deputy director for Gov. Maura Healey.
The federal complaint details specific discrepancies in Cook's benefit application. He was approved for SNAP benefits on April 6, 2026, shortly after his initial indictment. Through September, he received roughly $546 per month, totaling approximately $3,274 in federal food assistance purchases.
Prosecutors allege Cook provided false information on his application. He claimed his monthly income was under $150 and his bank balance was $100 or less. The complaint notes his actual bank balance stood at $8,814 in April. It also states he failed to list his fiancée and her mother as household members, despite their employment and income.
The federal documents point to additional assets Cook allegedly omitted. His mother won about $1 million in the lottery in early 2026 and provided him with over $12,000 since March. The prosecution asserts he purposely left out two employed household members and substantial assets.
Cook is currently held in a separate state case. He remains in custody in Hampden Superior Court on charges including trafficking at least 200 grams of cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug laws. Police allegedly intercepted 18 pounds of cocaine sent to his office in October 2025. He was originally released on $25,000 cash bail in March, but that bond was revoked when the new charges emerged.
Cook also faces state charges for possession of a gun and ammunition without a firearms identification card, as well as unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. He previously defended his benefit usage to the Boston Herald, stating he had no income and believed those facing hardships in the Commonwealth should receive help.
Cook is scheduled to return to federal court for an initial status conference on December 17 at 11:30 a.m.
