Four Colombian nationals were apprehended in New Jersey after federal prosecutors allege that they operated a fraudulent law firm deceiving migrants out of approximately $100,000. Among those arrested were three siblings, identified as Daniela, Jhoan, and Alexandra Sanchez Ramirez, who were taken into custody at Newark Airport while attempting to flee the United States with one-way tickets back to Colombia. A fourth accomplice, Marlyn Yulitza Salazar Pineda, was arrested at a restaurant in New Jersey. A fifth individual involved is still at large and not in U.S. custody.

The scheme involved the defendants impersonating federal judges and immigration officials, creating fictitious court proceedings, and sending fake legal documents to victims. This enabled them to exploit vulnerable migrants who were seeking help with their immigration processes. U.S. Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. highlighted the audacity of the defendants' actions, emphasizing the severity of the deception and the criminality behind the operation.

This case reflects a broader concern regarding the exploitation of migrants, a population that is often targeted by fraudsters due to their vulnerable status. Law enforcement continues to encourage potential victims to come forward with information, recognizing the importance of combating such illegal operations that prey on those seeking legal support during their immigration journey.