Allegations Against Illinois Senator’s Staffer Over Misrepresentation

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disclosed that a staff member for U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth allegedly impersonated a lawyer to assist detained immigrants in gaining release. This information came to light via a statement from DHS.

In a letter to Duckworth, Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, noted that the individual, Edward York, claimed to be the attorney for a 40-year-old undocumented immigrant, Jose Ismir Ayuzo Sandoval. Mr. Sandoval has been previously deported to Mexico multiple times and has a history of drunk driving convictions.

The incident occurred on October 29 at an ICE facility in St. Louis, Illinois.

According to the letter, at about 1:29 p.m., York entered the facility’s lobby. He told federal agents he represented Mr. Ayuzo, requesting to speak with him. This letter detailed how this employee likely entered with the intention of facilitating releases by presenting forged DHS documents.

York was able to meet with Ayuzo and had him sign a G-28 form, which is necessary for attorneys to represent clients in immigration dealings and allows proper communication with government agencies on their behalf.

Despite this, York tried to submit the G-28 form without Ayuzo’s signature just days later. The letter mentioned that the Suarez Law Firm in Collinsville filed a G-28 without the required signature, all while claiming York worked for them and had already secured a signed form.

It seems that York might have collaborated with the firm to obscure his earlier misrepresentations.

ICE has yet to ascertain whether York is recognized as an attorney.

Additionally, a Facebook post that surfaced regarding the incident fueled suspicions. It originated from the Montgomery County Democratic Party’s page and stated that York arrived with documents and a release order, misleading law enforcement about his identity.

In light of these allegations, Lyons has requested clarification from Duckworth’s office by November 17, probing into York’s employment and if he knowingly falsified information. He also called into question whether York acted in concert with other staff members.

Lyons emphasized the importance of ending political tactics that compromise both law enforcement and detainee safety. He expressed concern for his constituents who have suffered due to crimes committed by undocumented individuals and urged cooperation with DHS to address these issues.

So far, Senator Duckworth’s office has not provided a response to requests for comment.