DEA Agent Arrested in Visa Fraud Scheme
A supervisory special agent from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) stationed in the Dominican Republic has been arrested amid an investigation into the misuse of the U.S. visa program designed for confidential informants.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated, “Supervisory Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration were arrested yesterday in Washington, D.C., and charged in an indictment unsealed today in U.S. District Court in connection with their role in a bribery and U.S. visa fraud scheme.”
Meriton Cordero, 47, was apprehended as part of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) investigation. Following his arrest, the Trump administration swiftly shut down the DEA’s operation in the Dominican Republic, describing the actions as a “disgusting and shameful violation of public trust.”
“This individual was entrusted by the American people to faithfully carry out his duties and represent the American government abroad as a leader within the DEA,” Pirro continued. “Rather, he allegedly broke the law, squandered this special trust, and undermined the president’s immigration priorities. This behavior by any government official is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
On the same day, U.S. Ambassador Leah F. Campos announced the indefinite closure of DEA offices but did not initially provide a reason.
She expressed on social media, “Using a public position for personal gain is an abhorrent and shameful violation of the public trust. I will not tolerate even the perception of corruption in any of the embassies I lead.”
Dominican Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez mentioned that the closure was unrelated to the Dominican government and was rather a result of an internal U.S. investigation.
Every year, the DEA, FBI, and other federal law enforcement agencies help bring numerous foreign nationals into the U.S. who might otherwise be considered inadmissible due to criminal connections. These individuals are typically expected to assist in investigations and may eventually become eligible for permanent residency.
The Dominican Republic is a crucial transit point for narcotics coming from South America, with its law enforcement working in close collaboration with U.S. agencies for many years.
Back in late November, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic authorized U.S. government operations in restricted areas at San Isidro Air Base and Las Americas International Airport in an effort to intensify combat against drug trafficking.
