Thread: MA: owner of raided co. gets 1yr in jail

Mass. factory owner sentenced in immigration case

14 hours ago

BOSTON (AP) — A leather-goods factory owner was sentenced to a year in prison Tuesday for harboring and concealing illegal immigrants at the plant agents raided in 2007.

Francesco Insolia, who had pleaded guilty in November, said in court he took full responsibility for not taking any action after being informed illegal immigrants were working in his factory in New Bedford.

"I'm responsible for the conduct," Insolia said, while more than 30 emotional supporters listened. "Never in my worst nightmare would I think I'd find myself in the position I am in today."

The company Insolia owned, Michael Bianco Inc., was ordered to pay $1 million for 18 specific counts of knowingly hiring illegal immigrants between 2004 and late 2006.

When the factory was raided in March 2007, federal authorities arrested 361 workers, most of whom were from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Immigrant advocates criticized the March 2007 raid for separating families and leaving children without proper care. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said the raid was properly handled.

The company was sold to Eagle Industries of Fenton, Mo., more than a year ago.

U.S. District Judge Douglas Woodlock said he received letters from Insolia's supporters and from former workers praising him as a boss and for his community wor

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Francesco Insolia, will be popular with "leather lovers " in prison

Related post:
http://www.alipac.us/ftopict-144308.html