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Defendant Admits to Illicit Return to the United States
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – In a bold move, 49-year-old Maria Martinez, also known as Maria Josefa Munagorri Diaz, has pleaded guilty to attempting to illegally re-enter the United States.
A Spanish national, Martinez was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the Northern District of Ohio in 2002. Following a 32-month prison sentence, she was deported from the country. Due to her conviction, Martinez is not permitted to enter the United States.
Yesterday, Martinez admitted that on August 8, 2016, she presented herself at the Champlain Port of Entry for admission to the United States. However, a fingerprint scan revealed her arrest record and prior deportation, effectively thwarting her attempt.
The guilty plea was made in conjunction with an announcement from United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian and Steven Bronson, United States Customs and Border Protection Port Director for the Champlain Port of Entry.
As a result of her conviction, Martinez faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when she is sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Norman A. Mordue on May 30, 2017.
The case was investigated by United States Customs and Border Protection, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas Collyer serving as the prosecuting attorney.
This latest development highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to prevent individuals with a history of serious crimes from re-entering the country.
It remains to be seen what the full extent of Martinez’s involvement will be, but one thing is certain – those who attempt to circumvent the law will be held accountable.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Border Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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