Hua Yao Ke, Harboring Undocumented Workers, Florida 2024

Harboring Undocumented Workers Lands Restaurant Owners in Hot Water

Two Jacksonville restaurant owners, Hua Yao Ke and Ping Ping Zheng, are facing serious charges for harboring undocumented workers. Ke, 38, and Zheng, 37, each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison if convicted.

According to federal authorities, Ke owned and operated the Kamiya 86 Sushi and Thai restaurant in Ponte Vedra Beach, while Zheng owned and operated the Kamiya 86 Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar in Jacksonville Beach. Both restaurants allegedly employed workers who were unlawfully present in the United States and not legally authorized to work in the country.

Contrary to federal law, Ke and Zheng did not require the workers to provide documents to establish that they could legally work in the United States. The pair also provided rent-free housing to the undocumented workers, free transportation between the houses and the restaurants, and free food. They paid the workers in cash and did not withhold taxes and other payments from the workers’ wages.

A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Border Patrol, with assistance from the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and the Jacksonville Beach Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.

The charges against Ke and Zheng come as a reminder of the serious consequences of harboring undocumented workers. The case highlights the importance of compliance with federal laws and regulations regarding employment and immigration.

As the investigation continues, residents of Jacksonville and surrounding areas are left wondering what led to the alleged actions of Ke and Zheng. One thing is certain, however – the consequences for harboring undocumented workers can be severe, and those found guilty will face serious penalties.

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