6 publishers · first seen Sun, 01 Nov 2026 02:34 UTC · updated Sun, 01 Nov 2026 03:09 UTC
The Trump administration's social media accounts shared images linking a Black man, identified as Mercedes Reshard New, to alleged food assistance fraud, using a Halloween theme and a pumpkin carved with a sombrero design. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins posted a photo of New, known as 'Shawty Dred,' labeled as a 'SNAP FRAUDSTER,' alongside fake Spirit Halloween packaging with the message, 'Some costumes come with a price tag. This one comes with a prison sentence.' The White House also posted a pumpkin with a sombrero carving and the words 'Spooky szn is here.'
New was arrested on federal charges for allegedly obtaining over $4 million in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits using more than 350 fraudulent accounts under stolen identities. He was indicted on multiple counts of mail fraud, aggravated identity theft, SNAP fraud, and illegal use of access devices. Federal prosecutors say he used the funds to finance a luxury lifestyle, including private jets and luxury vehicles. New remains in federal custody.
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