⏱ 2 min read
Berk Balgic, a 26-year-old Turkish national, pleaded guilty to encouraging and inducing illegal aliens to reside in the US. Balgic, who owned two restaurants in Branson, Missouri, hired individuals who were in the US illegally or in conflict with their visas. He directed them to obtain false documents to appear compliant with US immigration laws, and paid them less than US citizens or legal residents. The scheme started at least in August 2024 and continued until law enforcement executed search warrants on August 20, 2025.
Agents with Homeland Security Investigation (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) discovered evidence and identified at least 13 individuals Balgic knowingly employed illegally. The coordinated law enforcement action led to the execution of search warrants at Balgic’s residence and restaurants.
Balgic admitted his criminal conduct in a plea agreement and agreed to be removed from the US at the time of his sentencing. The investigation found that Balgic received a material economic benefit from his illegal hirings by paying lower wages to the illegal workers.
The case highlights the ongoing issue of encouraging and inducing illegal aliens in the US. Balgic’s guilty plea and impending removal from the US serve as a warning to those who engage in similar activities.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: White Collar Crime
- Defendant: Missouri
- Location: MO
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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