Federal agents arrest senator’s brother in major fraud operation

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Federal authorities arrested Iván González Costa, the brother of Senator Adrián González Costa, early Tuesday as part of a large-scale operation targeting fraud and identity theft in several municipalities.

The arrests were part of an operation led by the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI), along with the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPS). A total of eight arrest warrants and six search warrants were executed across Bayamón, Caguas, Carolina, Toa Baja, and Vega Baja.

According to federal prosecutors, a grand jury had issued a formal indictment on June 12 against Iván and seven others for conspiracy involving mail, electronic, and bank fraud, as well as aggravated identity theft. The accused allegedly engaged in activities resulting in the illicit acquisition of identification from unsuspecting victims to produce fraudulent driver’s licenses used to defraud businesses.

In a written statement, Senator Adrián González Costa expressed his deep concern for the family during this challenging time. He stated, “Today is an extremely difficult day for my family. As a son, my priority right now is my family, especially my mother and my other brother, considering the emotional impact this situation has on her and all of us.”

The senator added, “The judicial process will determine my brother’s participation in these alleged crimes. Like any citizen, he must face that process and respond to the law appropriately.” He reiterated his commitment to transparency and integrity in his role as a legislator.

The operation highlighted a pattern of fraudulent behavior, where the suspects allegedly stole personal information, including names, birth dates, and driver’s license numbers, to create counterfeit licenses. These fraudulent IDs allowed them to open accounts at Home Depot and make thousands of dollars in purchases.

Federal prosecutors indicate that the accused may face up to 30 years in prison if convicted, along with a mandatory consecutive sentence of at least two additional years for aggravated identity theft.

Stephen Muldrow, the U.S. Attorney for Puerto Rico, emphasized the seriousness of financial fraud as a critical challenge. “Preventing and prosecuting such crimes will continue to be a top priority for the federal prosecutors,” he stated. Authorities are encouraging potential victims to come forward for assistance.