Former Mayor of Vega Alta, Juan Manuel “Mane” Cruzado Laureano, has appealed a decision regarding the ongoing reduction of 15% of his monthly Social Security check. This reduction is intended to cover funds he was ordered to repay following his conviction for crimes committed while in office.
Appeal Filed in Boston
The appeal was certified on Tuesday and is based on Cruzado Laureano’s criminal record with the Federal District Court in Puerto Rico. The petition challenges the “final decision” made by Judge Pedro A. Delgado Hernández regarding two previous requests to halt the Social Security reduction.
According to filings by the federal prosecution, Cruzado Laureano requested a hearing to challenge the government’s efforts to collect monetary sanctions imposed as part of his sentence.
Arguments Presented
The former mayor argued that the seizure of 15% of his Social Security benefits is illegal because the municipality of Vega Alta has not claimed to be a victim of theft. He also cited health concerns, stating he has been suffering from the effects of influenza B since November 28, 2025, and requested a hearing for the government to explain the restitution process.
Documents submitted by Cruzado Laureano show he receives a $935 monthly Social Security check, with $140.25 being deducted towards a total restitution of $14,251.82. The funds are to be distributed to the Centro Cultural de Vega Alta, Cristalería Vega Alta, Ebanistería La Familia, and Martínez Air Conditioning.
Cruzado Laureano claims that at the current rate, it will take approximately 24 years to pay off the debt, at which point he would be over 100 years old.
Past Political Aspirations
Cruzado Laureano’s name resurfaced last year when he sought to become a candidate for governor. However, he was disqualified by the Popular Democratic Party due to his prior corruption conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Cruzado Laureano convicted of?
He was convicted of money laundering, extortion of contractors, and interference with witnesses, following an investigation stemming from a trip to the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York in 2001.
When did Cruzado Laureano begin appealing the Social Security reduction?
He filed his initial requests to eliminate the reduction of his Social Security benefits in October.
Who is responsible for the decision to reduce Cruzado Laureano’s Social Security benefits?
Judge Pedro A. Delgado Hernández denied the requests to halt the reduction, but did not provide a stated reason for the decision.
What impact will the outcome of this appeal have on the recovery of funds intended for the municipality of Vega Alta?
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