False sponsor scams in the United States

Almost 14,000 Cubans have benefited since last January from President Joe Biden’s so-called “humanitarian parole”. But cases of fraud and “false sponsors” from the United States do not stop appearing in the local press. Like this one that we will present below as a “call to alerts” for those offers that are proliferating on social networks.

A recent immigration fraud case involved a Miami resident who pleaded guilty to setting up fake sponsors for immigration papers. The defendant, Luis Alberto Santos, 49 years old.

He admitted in federal court that from 2016 to 2020, he devoted himself to providing advisory services and preparing immigration applications for people seeking lawful permanent residence in the United States.

However, instead of helping his clients find a legitimate sponsor that met USCIS requirements, Santos set up fake sponsors using invented or stolen names, addresses, and Social Security numbers.

Then, he would send false information on adjustment of status applications (Form I-485) to USCIS, charging between $5,000 and $10,000 per procedure.

Fake Sponsors and Scams in the United States

According to the attorney general’s office, Santos has filed at least 215 fraudulent requests for adjustment of status, affecting more than 200 people who trusted him to obtain their legal residency. Several of these people were called by USCIS to interview their alleged sponsors, but unable to contact them or prove their relationship, their applications were denied or suspended.

In addition, by providing false information to USCIS, these individuals could face legal consequences such as deportation or the inability to obtain immigration benefits in the future.

saints announce Guilty of conspiracy to commit immigration fraud and aggravated identity theft. He could face a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count. The verdict is scheduled for July this year.

This case is an example of how some people can take advantage of the need and vulnerability of immigrants seeking regularization in the United States. Therefore, it is important that applicants for immigration benefits are well-versed in legal requirements and processes, and that they seek reliable, professional advice.