Buffalo, NY – Wan Qin Lu, a former Chinese restaurant owner, has pleaded guilty to harboring illegal aliens for commercial advantage and private financial gain, a federal crime that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000 or both.
Lu, a resident of Cheektowaga, admitted to employing two Mexican nationals at his Easy Z Wok Restaurant in Cheektowaga without properly documenting their immigration status. Federal agents executed a search warrant at the restaurant and Lu’s home, where they found two Mexican nationals living in the basement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who is handling the case, stated that Lu was paying the Mexican nationals cash to avoid paying payroll taxes. The investigation was conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James C. Spero.
The plea is the culmination of an investigation that spanned several months. Lu’s sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. before Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Skretny.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of labor law violations and human trafficking in the restaurant industry. Lu’s actions not only put his employees at risk but also undermined the integrity of the U.S. immigration system.
Lu’s decision to plead guilty is a significant blow to his reputation and livelihood. The guilty plea is a reminder that those who exploit and harbor illegal aliens will be held accountable for their actions.
The case is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of federal law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice for victims of human trafficking and labor law violations.
RELATED: Berlin Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Pornography
RELATED: Elma Myles Pleads Guilty to Medicaid Fraud Scheme
Related Federal Cases
- Sununu Declares War on Trump’s GOP Grip · New Hampshire
- Wall Street Bailout: NY & CA Lose $2 Trillion · North Carolina
- “K Money” Crumbles: Wall St. Pretender Admits $2M Scam · New York
- PPE Lie: Edison Execs Plead Guilty to $10M Scam · Ohio
- NY Valet Scam: 37 Months for Fraud · Ohio
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News