A Roslindale man was arraigned today on charges that he fraudulently obtained more than $20,000 in public funds meant for the needy, Suffolk County District Attorney Daniel F. Conley said.

THOMAS CATER (D.O.B. 9/5/65) was arraigned this morning in the Boston Municipal Court on one count of larceny over $250 by continuous scheme and five counts of public assistance fraud. Judge Thomas set bail at $5,000.

Cater is accused of using a false identity to apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Emergency Assistance to Elders, Disabled, and Children benefits through the state’s Department of Transitional Assistance.

Using a name and social security number that were not his, Cater allegedly filed paperwork on divers dates between 2005 and 2011 that allowed him to receive benefits in addition to those he received under his true identity. All told, authorities say he defrauded the Commonwealth of Massachusetts out of $21,320.23.

Cater obtained a Massachusetts identification card under his false identity in 2010. Using facial recognition software, the Registry of Motor Vehicles determined that the photograph on that card depicted Cater.

Cater is represented by attorney Thomas Kaplanes. He is due back in court on Feb. 27.