Willow Grove Supervisor Aided Illegal Workers: Fraud Charges Filed

WILLOW GROVE, PA – A former supervisor at Asplundh Tree Experts, Inc. is facing serious federal charges after allegedly turning a blind eye – and providing crucial assistance – to the re-hiring of workers not authorized to work in the United States. Juan Rodriguez, 36, of Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, was charged today with one count of conspiracy to commit fraud and misuse visas and one count of fraud and misuse of visas, according to Acting United States Attorney Louis D. Lappen.

The feds allege that between 2012 and September 2014, Rodriguez knowingly accepted falsified identification documents from employees. This wasn’t a case of simple oversight; the information claims Rodriguez actively facilitated the re-employment of individuals previously flagged by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) as unauthorized aliens. The scheme allowed Asplundh to continue employing workers who were legally barred from doing so, raising questions about the company’s internal oversight.

Sources close to the investigation suggest Rodriguez’s position as a supervisor gave him the authority to approve hiring paperwork, effectively rubber-stamping the fraudulent documentation. While the scope of the operation and potential number of illegally employed individuals remains under wraps, investigators believe the scheme was ongoing for at least two years. The Department of Homeland Security, through HSI, conducted the probe, uncovering the pattern of accepting false IDs.

If convicted on both counts, Rodriguez is staring down the barrel of a hefty sentence. He faces a maximum possible sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following his incarceration. A $200 special assessment will also be levied if found guilty. This isn’t a slap on the wrist; the government is making a clear statement about the severity of visa fraud and the exploitation of immigration laws.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Josh A. Davison and Assistant United States Attorney L.C. Wright are prosecuting the case. They will be tasked with building a solid case demonstrating Rodriguez’s knowledge and intent. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments, including potential charges against others involved at Asplundh Tree Experts.

Important Disclaimer: An Information is merely an accusation. Rodriguez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.