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Immigration Document Fraud Scheme Uncovered in New Jersey
In a shocking revelation, Luc Fikiri Matthews, a 47-year-old man from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has been arrested for his involvement in a sophisticated immigration document fraud scheme in New Jersey. Matthews, who falsely represented himself as an immigration attorney, preyed on noncitizens who did not have legal permanent resident status in the United States.
According to the indictment, Matthews submitted false and fraudulent U Visa application documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service on behalf of his clients. The documents contained multiple fraudulent statements, including false representations of the clients’ experiences as victims of qualifying crimes and false names, signatures, and other means of identification.
The scheme, which took place between 2017 and 2018, targeted noncitizens in New Jersey and New York. Matthews charged his clients fees for his services, but unfortunately, none of them received a U Visa as a result of his fraudulent activities.
The U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced the arrest, stating that Matthews faces six counts of submitting false and fraudulent immigration documents and six counts of committing aggravated identity theft. If convicted, Matthews could face up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count of immigration documents fraud. He also faces up to two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count of aggravated identity theft.
The investigation into Matthews’ activities was led by special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special-Agent-in-Charge Jason J. Molina in Newark. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Aliabadi of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Camden office.
Matthews is currently scheduled to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Skahill. The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and Matthews is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
As the investigation continues, it is clear that Matthews’ actions have had a significant impact on the lives of his victims. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and protecting the integrity of the immigration system.
The exact date of the crime was not specified in the source, however the indictment was filed on February 9, 2022. Matthews’ current status is unknown at this time.
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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