Thread: New immigration law targets use of fake IDs

New immigration law targets use of fake IDs
By Craig Schneider and Jeremy Redmon

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
5:35 a.m. Wednesday, July 18, 1011

Any Georgia adult who uses a fake ID to get a job could go to prison for 15 years and pay a fine of $250,000.

The new offense, called aggravated identity fraud, went into effect July 1 under a little-noticed provision of the state’s new immigration law. It applies to everyone, not just illegal immigrants. The penalties are on par with possessing up to 10,000 pounds of marijuana.

"It's a harsh penalty," said Frank Rotondo, executive director of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police. "But it is meant as an eye-opener, to send a message."

In addition to illegal immigrants, those the law might snare, officials said, are deadbeat parents who are trying to hide income and young people lying about their age in order to get a job. (However, penalties are lower -- no more than three years and $5,000 -- for culprits younger than 21.)

Before July 1, the crime of using a false form of identification often resulted in probation and a small fine, Rotondo said.

Supporters of the law say it will help deter illegal immigrants from coming to Georgia and burdening the state’s taxpayer-funded public schools, hospitals and courts. Many come to Georgia to find work.

“We just can’t afford it,â€

[quote]“Not only does it not fit the crime, it’s absolutely anti-human rights,â€

No penalty is too tough when it comes to locating and removal of illegals as well as deadbeat parents. Bottom line is don't break the law and you have nothing to worry about . If your illegal then leave the work and head for the border.