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Fake Citizenship Scheme Unravels in NC
A federal grand jury in Raleigh has returned an indictment charging 38-year-old Diego Isidro Chaj-Ramos with Misuse of a Social Security Account Number, False Claim of United States Citizenship with Intent to Engage Unlawfully in Employment in the United States, and Aggravated Identity Theft.
According to an affidavit filed in support of a criminal complaint, Homeland Security agents obtained copies of several I-9 Forms revealing Chaj-Ramos falsely represented himself to be a United States citizen and provided multiple employers with the name, date of birth, and Social Security number of a United States citizen in order to qualify for employment in the Eastern District of North Carolina.
Court records reveal that Chaj-Ramos illegally entered the United States at an unknown date and location, and was charged and/or convicted multiple times in North Carolina under the identity of a United States citizen.
If convicted of Misuse of a Social Security Account Number, False Claim of United States Citizenship with Intent to Engage Unlawfully in Employment in the United States, and Aggravated Identity Theft, Chaj-Ramos, found in Wake County, would face maximum penalties of 48 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and a term of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, which has been working tirelessly to uncover and prosecute those who attempt to exploit our country’s immigration system.
As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how far-reaching this scheme may be and how many individuals may have been affected. However, one thing is certain: those who attempt to deceive and defraud our system will be brought to justice.
Chaj-Ramos is currently being held without bail and is expected to appear in court soon to face the charges against him. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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