TWC Assists In Investigating Unemployment Scheme

In August 2008, Jose Luis Gonzalez began filing fraudulent unemployment claims with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Gonzalez then falsely identified himself as the employer to verify his fraudulent claims. Gonzalez also advertised his scheme on social media and recruited others to join his operation.

TWC’s Office of Investigations, in a commendable display of cooperation, worked in tandem with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Office of the Inspector General (OIG) Officer of Labor Racketeering and Fraud Investigations Dallas, U.S. Postal Inspectors of McAllen, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Department, and the Hidalgo Police Department to locate and interview the suspect. The DOL and OIG conducted an undercover purchase of a UI claim from Gonzalez, leading to a raid on his residence by agents.

“I applaud the thorough work of TWC staff and the multiple law enforcement agencies involved in bringing this case to justice,” said TWC Executive Director Ed Serna. “TWC is constantly working on new measures to help detect, prevent, and reduce fraud, and this case highlights the success of those efforts.”

The scheme involved 104 UI claims for 79 unique Social Security Numbers, including seven claims Gonzalez filed for himself. Gonzalez and the nine co-conspirators have pleaded guilty, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas sentenced them.

TWC, with a steadfast commitment to its mission, utilizes all available tools to swiftly identify and shut down fraudulent unemployment claims. It works in close collaboration with law enforcement and prosecutors to bring offenders to justice and recover stolen funds, a testament to its unwavering dedication to the cause.