Michael Dote, Harboring Illegal Aliens, New York 2015

Utica Dog Food Plant Owner Pleads Guilty to Harboring Illegal Aliens

In a shocking turn of events, Michael Dote, 47, of West Edmeston, New York, has pleaded guilty to harboring four illegal aliens at his dog food plant, Scooby Rendering, Inc. in Utica, New York.

The charges stem from a fire at the plant on December 30, 2013, which revealed that four Guatemalan nationals were working and residing at the facility. Dote, who admitted to hiring the aliens without verifying their documentation, faces a statutory maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.00.

The investigation, led by U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), uncovered a pattern of illegal activity at the plant, with Dote knowingly employing and housing the aliens in violation of U.S. immigration laws.

As part of his plea agreement, Dote is scheduled to be sentenced on September 18, 2015, before the Honorable Glenn T. Suddaby.

The case highlights the growing issue of immigration crimes in the United States, with many business owners exploiting vulnerable workers and putting national security at risk.

The prosecution of Dote is a significant victory for law enforcement, who worked tirelessly to bring the defendant to justice.

Further questions may be directed to Executive Assistant United States John Duncan at (315) 448-0672.

Mandatory Facts:

Defendant: Michael Dote, age 47, of West Edmeston, New York

Criminal Charges: Harboring four illegal aliens from November 2013 through December 31, 2013

City and State: Utica, New York

Exact Date: May 8, 2015 (plea hearing)

Sentence: Scheduled to be sentenced on September 18, 2015, facing a maximum of 5 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000.00

Dollar Amounts: $250,000.00 (maximum fine)

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/owner-utica-dog-food-plant-admits-harboring-illegal-aliens