Federal Authorities Charge Eight Illegal Immigrants in Kentucky

Federal officials have arrested and charged eight illegal immigrants for allegedly using stolen Social Security numbers to gain employment in Kentucky.

On May 21 and 22, thirteen illegal aliens were apprehended in the Paducah area as part of the Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Reclaim America. Of those arrested, eight were found to have used identity information that belonged to American citizens, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

Authorities discovered that these individuals submitted stolen information on USCIS I-9 forms, which are designed to confirm if a foreign national is authorized to work in the United States. It appears they used the Social Security numbers of American citizens to secure their jobs.

Among those indicted are three Mexicans: Daniel Martínez Cruz, Manuel Martínez García, and Julio Venture Hernandez; four Guatemalans: Joel Gomez, Juan Pastor Gonzalez, Marcelina Juarez Vicentem, and Ricardo López; and one Spanish national, Ana Osorio Lusado.

“This investigation shows our dedication to upholding the integrity of our employment and immigration systems,” stated Dennis M. Fetting, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI. “By exposing and tackling fraud, we are clearly indicating that those who try to evade federal law will face consequences. This situation underscores the necessity of coordinated enforcement and collaboration in fighting fraud and ensuring the safety of American workplaces.”

“These are not victimless crimes,” emphasized Luis Aguirre, Deputy Director of ICE Louisville Field Office. “Using fraudulent Social Security numbers to displace American workers negatively impacts our communities. I am incredibly proud of the diligent work our officers and partners are doing to enforce our immigration laws.”

If found guilty of fraud, the defendants could face up to five years in prison.

A recent indictment from North Carolina also highlights the issue of stolen Social Security numbers. Two former employees of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Huntersville reported that illegal immigrants were working there using their Social Security numbers. The restaurant owner claims to have permitted illegal immigrants to use his personal information after the American employees had left.