ICE Arrests Nine Chilean Nationals Involved in Theft Ring

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have apprehended nine Chilean nationals in New Jersey who overstayed their visas and are linked to a theft operation originating from South America.

Ruben Perez from ICE expressed their dedication, stating, “We are focused on halting temporary criminal foreigners who manipulate the immigration system and endanger American communities and businesses. Our collaboration with law enforcement has led to the dismantling of these South American theft groups, ensuring that lawbreakers are held accountable.”

This month, ICE and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted arrests in Jersey City and Princeton, targeting Chilean citizens who had entered the U.S. with valid visas but overstayed them at the time of their arrests.

According to ICE agents, these individuals are affiliated with theft rings from South America, having relocated to the U.S. to commit crimes against affluent Americans.

A press release from ICE noted, “They are recognized for executing sophisticated burglaries and robbery of high-end residences and businesses, along with various property crimes that significantly impact American communities.”

Some of the arrests include:

• Chilean nationals with previous charges for petty theft, retail theft, use of burglary tools, and fraudulent credit cards, with outstanding warrants for theft and robbery in multiple states.
• Chilean nationals identified as members of a South American theft group.
• A Chilean national previously charged with petty theft, grand larceny, driving under the influence, and a pending warrant in Florida for failing to appear in court.
• Chilean nationals with outstanding burglary warrants in Pennsylvania.
• A Chilean national with a history of theft who is an active member of a theft group alleged to have received stolen property.

Despite the prominent issues involving Chilean nationals arriving in the U.S. solely for criminal activity, Chile remains part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), allowing foreigners to stay without a visa for up to 90 days.

The VWP permits individuals to bypass the visa application process, requiring only a visa for certain entries to the United States.

Chile was the first country added to the VWP in 2014 during the Obama administration.