On February 20, 2026, the U.S. Federal Prosecutor's Office for the Eastern District of New York announced that five individuals from Colombia were charged with fraud and impersonating immigration officials. The group had allegedly posed as immigration lawyers, judges, and federal agents to exploit victims, collecting fees for non-existent legal services. This criminal activity came to light through an investigation by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Three of the suspects were apprehended at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey while attempting to board a flight to Colombia. The arrested individuals were identified as Daniela Alejandra Sanchez Ramirez, 25, and two others related to her. The scheme highlighted serious vulnerabilities in the immigration consultation space, raising concerns about the integrity of legal assistance given to individuals seeking immigration help.

The incident showcases the ongoing issues related to immigration fraud in the U.S. and the measures being taken by authorities to combat such crimes. By targeting these false legal representatives, USCIS aims to protect potential victims from scams that exploit their need for assistance in navigating the immigration process. The case is part of broader efforts to ensure that those in need of legitimate immigration services can access them without falling prey to fraudulent individuals.