Erie, PA – Falsified Visa Documents Uncovered
A shocking case of visa fraud has been uncovered in Erie, Pennsylvania, with a former Mercyhurst University employee at the center of the scandal. Daniel Cabanillas, 47, a resident of Erie, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of use of a false visa, Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song announced today.
The indictment, which was presented to the court, alleges that Cabanillas made materially false statements on Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status – for Academic and Language Students, while he was employed as the Designated School Official (DSO) at Mercyhurst University. The alleged false certification of a person’s acceptance status at the university is a serious offense that could have far-reaching consequences for international students and the university itself.
Cabanillas was terminated from his position as DSO on February 19, 2015, but the damage may already have been done. The indictment highlights the importance of verifying the authenticity of visa documents and the consequences of falsifying them.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Marshall J. Piccinini is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation leading to the indictment in this case.
It is essential to note that the indictment is an accusation and not a conviction. Cabanillas is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
As the investigation continues, it is crucial to ensure that international students and universities adhere to the rules and regulations governing visa documents. The consequences of visa fraud can be severe, and it is essential to take steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Mandatory Facts:
Defendant: Daniel Cabanillas
Criminal Charges: Use of a false visa
City and State: Erie, Pennsylvania
Exact Date: [No specific date mentioned]
Sentence or Outcome: Currently indicted, maximum 20 years in prison and $500,000 fine
Dollar Amounts: $500,000 fine
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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