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Falsifying Citizenship Docs Lands Lawrence Woman in Hot Water
A Lawrence woman’s quest for citizenship has hit a roadblock, and now she’s paying the price for her dishonesty. Francisca De La Cruz, 50, was sentenced to one year of probation, complete with 200 hours of community service, for making false statements on her naturalization application.
According to court documents, De La Cruz submitted her application on Nov. 25, 2013, but conveniently left out a few crucial details. When she was arrested in 2006, she identified herself to police under a false name, ‘Mercedes Abrue.’ It’s unclear what she was charged with at the time, but it’s clear that De La Cruz thought she was above the law.
De La Cruz’s guilty plea came in May 2018, and now she’s facing the consequences of her actions. It’s a harsh reminder that lying to get ahead won’t cut it in the eyes of the law.
U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel handed down the sentence, and it’s a fitting punishment for De La Cruz’s transgressions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine Wichers of U.S. Attorney Andrew E. Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, led by Special Agent in Charge Peter C. Fitzhugh, worked closely with federal authorities to bring De La Cruz to justice.
This case serves as a warning to anyone considering falsifying documents to get ahead: the consequences are real, and the law will catch up with you.
With her community service and probation, De La Cruz will have plenty of time to reflect on her actions. It’s a long way down from the promise of citizenship, and it’s a harsh reminder that honesty is always the best policy.
Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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