GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – A Mexican national illegally residing in the United States is facing serious federal charges after authorities uncovered a cache of weapons and fraudulent documentation. Diego Hernandez-Cortes, a/k/a “Javier De La Cruz,” 33, was taken into custody February 15, 2017, following a joint investigation by federal and local law enforcement.
The indictment, returned by a grand jury for the Western District of Michigan, alleges Hernandez-Cortes knowingly possessed a DPMS Inc., Panther .223 caliber semiautomatic rifle, along with 15 rounds of Remington .223 caliber ammunition. This isn’t just a paperwork violation; it’s a dangerous individual unlawfully armed, a clear threat to public safety. The feds aren’t messing around.
Beyond the firearm, the indictment paints a picture of calculated deception. Hernandez-Cortes is accused of falsely claiming lawful Permanent Resident status on multiple occasions, including to two separate employers in Kent and Oceana Counties. He allegedly provided a fabricated alien registration number and even misrepresented a Social Security account number as his own – one that hadn’t been assigned to him. This isn’t just about getting a job; it’s identity theft and a blatant disregard for the law.
Investigators also seized two Social Security cards and three Permanent Resident cards from Hernandez-Cortes, all of which are alleged to be forged, counterfeited, altered, or otherwise unlawfully obtained. The scope of his fraudulent activity suggests a deliberate attempt to establish a false identity and remain in the country illegally. The feds believe he overstayed his work visa, turning a temporary legal status into a prolonged criminal enterprise.
The case was a collaborative effort between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Sparta Police Department. These agencies worked together to dismantle Hernandez-Cortes’ scheme and bring him to justice. A conviction could land Hernandez-Cortes up to 10 years in federal prison, and, crucially, deportation back to Mexico.
It’s important to remember that these are merely accusations at this stage. Hernandez-Cortes is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However, the evidence presented thus far suggests a pattern of criminal behavior that demands a thorough investigation and, if the allegations are true, a significant penalty. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds.
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Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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