Grimy Times Exclusive: Local Woman Sentenced for Passport-Related Crimes

A Houston area woman, Margarita Torres Barajas, has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for making a false statement on a passport application and aggravated identity theft.

On March 4, 2024, U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone issued the sentence following Barajas’ guilty plea.

According to information presented in court, Barajas, a 50-year-old Mexican national, entered the U.S. Post Office in Beaumont on October 11, 2021, to apply for a U.S. passport.

During the application process, Barajas falsely claimed to be a citizen of the United States. She used a social security card and Puerto Rican birth certificate discovered in New York City to apply for the passport.

The social security card and birth certificate belonged to a U.S. citizen. Barajas also used these items to apply for a state identification card from another state.

The case was investigated by the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department and the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Reynaldo P. Morin prosecuted the case.

Defendant’s Name: Margarita Torres Barajas

Criminal Charges: Making a False Statement on a Passport Application and Aggravated Identity Theft

City and State: Beaumont, Texas

Exact Date: March 4, 2024 (sentencing date)

Sentence or Outcome: 30 months in federal prison

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