USA
6, including 4 Indians, indicted for staging robberies to apply for immigration status in Chicago and the suburbs. The purpose of these staged incidents was to enable purported victims to apply for U.S. immigration visas. reserved for certain crime victims. The indictment, unsealed in federal court in Chicago, sheds light on the purported scheme.
Organizers and Participants
PARTH NAYI and KEWON YOUNG are accused of orchestrating and participating in staged armed robberies. These staged robberies were done at various establishments, including restaurants, coffee shops, liquor stores, and gas stations. These incidents unfolded in Chicago and suburbs such as Lombard, Elmwood Park, St. Charles, Hickory Hills, River Grove, Lake Villa, and South Holland. Similar robberies occurred in restaurants in Rayne, La., and Belvidere, Tenn.
Role of Alleged Victims
The indictment alleges that BHIKHABHAI PATEL, NILESH PATEL, RAVINABEN PATEL, and RAJNIKUMAR PATEL collaborated with Nayi to serve as “victims” of these staged robberies. Their objective was to submit applications for U nonimmigrant status (“U-visa”). U Visa designated for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and have aided law enforcement or government officials in an investigation or prosecution.
Financial Incentives
Individuals purportedly paid Nayi significant sums to participate in the scam. During the staged robberies, those posing as robbers allegedly brandished what appeared to be firearms, approached the supposed victims, and demanded money and property.
Submission of Fraudulent Applications
Subsequently, some of the purported victims reportedly submitted forms to local law enforcement to obtain certification as victims of a qualifying crime. They claimed they had assisted or would assist in the investigation. Following this, some individuals allegedly submitted fraudulent U-visa applications to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. citing their supposed status as victims of robbery.
Legal Ramifications
Nayi, Young, Bhikhabhai Patel, Nilesh Patel, Ravinaben Patel, and Rajnikumar Patel face charges of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. Ravinaben Patel also faces an individual charge of making a false statement in a visa application. If convicted, they could face substantial prison sentences.
Important Reminder
The indictment’s announcement was made by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, along with law enforcement officials. It’s crucial to remember that an indictment only contains charges and does not constitute evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
