I.C.E. News Release

June 21, 2010

Mexican nationals plead guilty to immigration document fraud

FRESNO, Calif. - Two Mexican nationals have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to produce fraudulent immigration and Social Security documents as a result of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Ismael Preciliano-Vasquez, 26, pleaded guilty Monday and his co-defendant, Juan Miguel Ambrosio-Perez, 32, of Mexico, pleaded guilty to the conspiracy June 7. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California.

According to the plea agreement, between April 2009 and April 2010, the men produced and sold fraudulent immigration and identification documents, including Social Security cards and alien registration receipt cards, often known as "green cards." The court documents describe how the men met prospective purchasers in public locations, returned to a residence in Tulare County to produce the documents, and then provided the purchasers with the fraudulent documents.

ICE agents executed a federal search warrant at Preciliano-Vasquez's and Ambrosio-Perez's residence April 16 where they recovered fraudulent document-making equipment and supplies.

Both defendants face a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine when they are sentenced August 30.

-- ICE --

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security.

ICE is a 21st century law enforcement agency with broad responsibilities for a number of key homeland security priorities. For more information, visit www.ICE.gov. To report suspicious activity, call 1-866-347-2423.

Last Modified: Tuesday, June 22, 2010
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

http://www.ice.gov/pi/nr/1006/100621fresno.htm