Nevada Man Charged with Naturalization Fraud
A man from Nevada faces charges for allegedly fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship after previously committing rape, even as he denies these allegations, according to federal prosecutors.
The Justice Department has filed charges against Kevin Jesus King, accusing him of lying in his application for citizenship in 2018. Specifically, he reportedly checked a box stating he had never committed or aided a crime for which he wasn’t arrested, or provided false information to government officials.
Authorities noted that he checked “no” in response to these questions. King was eventually naturalized during a ceremony in Reno on June 15, 2018.
Court documents reveal that he pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault related to incidents occurring around July 25, 2017, and March 18, 2018.
Citizenship Should Not Come from Lies
Nevada District Attorney Sigal Chata stated, “American citizenship is one of the most meaningful privileges our country can bestow, and it cannot be earned through lies, concealment, or fraud.” He emphasized that King allegedly concealed serious felonies while seeking the rights granted by citizenship. Chata assured that their office collaborates with law enforcement to safeguard the integrity of the naturalization process.
The indictment did not disclose King’s country of origin.
Increasing Scrutiny of Citizenship Applications
The charges occur amidst the Trump administration’s heightened efforts to denaturalize individuals suspected of acquiring citizenship through fraud or by withholding significant criminal history during the naturalization process. Earlier this month, the Justice Department revealed intentions to revoke citizenship for 17 individuals believed to have gained their naturalization through deceit.
These individuals, hailing from thirteen different countries, are accused of severe crimes, including child sexual abuse and drug trafficking. Those found to have obtained citizenship fraudulently potentially face up to ten years in prison and automatic revocation of their citizenship, as stated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
