Former Massachusetts state Senator Dean Tran has been convicted on 23 federal charges, including 20 counts of wire fraud and three counts of filing false tax returns, for fraudulently collecting $30,120 in pandemic unemployment benefits while employed as a paid consultant. He also concealed over $54,700 in consulting income and additional rental income from the IRS. Tran, who served from 2017 to 2021, was arrested in November 2023 and faces sentencing on December 4, 2024. His sister, Tuyet Martin, is also facing charges for helping to cover up the fraudulent activities. Tran has a history of legal troubles, including previous charges of ethics violations and theft. The conviction underscores federal efforts to hold public officials accountable for exploiting pandemic relief funds.