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The Enforcement Services Unit of the Massachusetts RMV has been imposing hundreds of indefinite Complaint Fraudulent License / ID suspensions.
The Registry updated its facial recognition software with an improved algorithm which detects fraud by scanning facial features of the over 10 million driver’s license and identification card photographs stored in the Registry’s database. L-1 Identity Solutions provides the software that this system uses to identify fraud. Photographs of all license, ID, and permit applicants are scanned at the time of the initial application and when the credential is to be renewed.
Some license fraud investigations are initiated by a facial recognition match and sometimes they are initiated by a Registry employee who spots fraudulent, forged, altered, or counterfeit documents that are submitted in connection with an application for a permit, license, ID card, or vehicle registration.
If you received a notice of compromised ID or a Complaint Fraudulent License suspension notice from the Registry of Motor Vehicles that means that your photo was probably discovered on multiple records. When this happens, you must prove your identity and residential address to the Registry’s satisfaction. Once the Registry is satisfied with the documentation that you provide a hearing will be scheduled with the Registry’s Enforcement Services Unit.
Hearing Officers from the Registry’s Suspension Department cannot hear license fraud cases. They must be heard by the Enforcement Services Unit, which is located at 185 Kneeland Street, 5th Floor, Boston, Massachusetts.
The purpose of the Enforcement Services hearing is to determine what happened and for the Registry Hearing Officer to decide what action to take if it is determined that license fraud occurred.
The consequences of license fraud and identity theft can be serious. Pursuant to G.L. c. 90 § 24B, it is a felony to fraudulently obtain a Massachusetts learner’s permit, driver’s license, or identification card. It is also a felony to impersonate another person in an application for any of the above-listed credentials. Pursuant to G.L. c. 266 § 37E, it is also a crime to steal someone’s identity.
Some Complaint Fraudulent License / ID cases are handled administratively by the Registry and others are referred to the Massachusetts State Police for prosecution. Administrative sanctions include license suspensions, the payment of a mandatory $500.00 reinstatement fee, and the requirement to re-take written and road tests.
If you received a license fraud notice from the Registry, you should have legal representation. Please contact our office so that we can discuss how we can help you.
