Immigration law is so much more than forms. Every question on Immigration forms has consequences. Sadly, many still turn to "notarios" and paralegals to complete their forms incorrectly and possibly ruin their opportunity to immigrate legally.
Recently, a federal judge sentenced a naturalized citizen for lying to obtain US citizenship. U.S. District Judge sentenced a 40-year-old man to eight months in prison following a guilty plea to immigration fraud. His citizenship was also revoked.
According to court records, on July 3, 2019, he fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship by making materially false statements under oath regarding his naturalization application. He lied on a few questions. One of those questions was, “Have you ever committed, assisted in committing, or attempted to commit a crime or offense for which you were not arrested?”
According to the transcript of the plea and judgment issued by the court, the applicant confessed to having committed the crime from Jan. 1, 2019, through Dec. 30, 2019. Therefore, the offense was ongoing when he made the false statements on his naturalization application.
“Citizenship is America’s most precious gift we can give,” said Atlanta Field Office Director. “Those who earn the gift can tell stories of profound courage, character, and sacrifice.
Since 2019, Operation False Haven of DHS has resulted in 56 criminal cases, 26 civil cases, 21 convictions, 15 judicial revocations of citizenship, and seven judicial removal orders against defendants convicted of various crimes.
With this administration issuing new rules and regulations frequently, many are confused and seek assistance with ‘notarios’ who are out in full force advising applicants incorrectly and charging fees higher than most attorneys. Beware, you are liable for all information someone puts on your petitions. Always seek the advice of a licensed attorney.