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11 PEOPLE ARRESTED ON SECTION 245(i) SCAM
by Michael J. Gurfinkel, Esq.
The Los Angeles Times recently reported an ongoing
crackdown against immigration fraud, and criminal charges were
filed against 11 people suspected of "taking advantage of people
desperate to legally stay in the United States by making false
promises they can't keep."
Officials from the District Attorney's Office said those arrested
had cheated their victims of their money by making them believe
that Section 245(i) was a form of amnesty for illegal immigrants.
Section 245(i) merely enables certain aliens who have overstayed,
worked without authorization, jumped ship, snuck across the border,
etc. to preserve their future ability to be interviewed
for a green card in the United States. It does not automatically
grant legal status (or work authorization) to illegal immigrants,
nor protect them from deportation or any other enforcement action.
They continue to be in illegal status while awaiting processing
and interview for a green card.
The District Attorney's Office said not all people are eligible
for residency under Section 245(i), and that con artists (who
falsely claim they are attorneys or legally bonded consultants)
are taking advantage of people desperate to stay in the United
States by making promises they can't keep.
"Those who hope to apply and go to one of these crooks who make
them empty promises while taking a victim's money face the possibility
of deportation and the long process of trying to get back into
the United States and establish residency," District Attorney
Steve Colley said.
In one case, an immigration consultant was charged with five counts
of grand theft and other crimes for allegedly illegally charging
a family thousands of dollars to "fix" their immigration problems.
This ongoing drive against immigration fraud is publicized to
make people aware of the expected surge of immigration fraud over
the next few weeks leading to Section 245(i)'s April 30, 2001
deadline.
The public should beware of anybody who promises an easy green
card or a fast work permit, or those who boast of having friends
inside the INS, and their ability to get a green card without
interview, or pull out papers and put them ahead of others. Many
have fallen victim to these con artists, and ended up losing their
hard-earned money, and with a fake green card or fake working
permit in their hands.
There simply is no easy way, or short cuts, quick fixes, etc.,
to a green card. You have to go through normal processing
procedures, and prove that you are entitled to the immigration
benefit you are seeking.
People should always be aware of the possibility of falling victim
to these alleged immigration consultants. The rule that should
always be followed is: "When it's too good to be true, it probably
ain't true."
Contrary to what people might believe, Section 245(i) is not
an "amnesty". Immigration consultants who say that, are not telling
you the truth, and are obviously out to get your hard-earned money.
So many crooks and con artists are out there, preying on the desperation
of people. Going to unscrupulous immigration consultants or to
other persons who are not licensed to practice immigration law
may only lead you to more serious troubles with immigration authorities,
that will cost you more to solve. If you have any immigration
problem, consult with a reputable immigration attorney, who can
help you analyze your situation, and present to you the best
legitimate option to help you legalize your stay in the United
States.
Immigration law is complicated and constantly changing. Attorneys
studied in law school and are regularly updated on such changes.
They have the knowledge and experience to help you obtain the
immigration benefits that you desire.
Your immigration situation is very important to your future in
the United States. Don't entrust it to people who lack the knowledge
and skill to legalize your status.
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