Colombian Nationals Charged in $100K Fraud Scheme Targeting Migrants

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Four Colombian nationals were arrested, including three at an airport with one-way tickets out of the country, after prosecutors say they posed as immigration judges and federal agents to target migrants. The group allegedly operated a fictitious law firm, solicited victims through Facebook, and charged fees ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars "for nonexistent legal advice and services." Investigators have identified over $100,000 in fraudulent transactions allegedly transmitted by victims to the defendants and other individuals associated with the fake law firm.

Why it matters

This case highlights the vulnerability of migrants seeking legal assistance, as well as the growing problem of fraud schemes targeting immigrant communities. It raises concerns about the need for stronger oversight and regulation of immigration services to protect victims from exploitation.

The details

The defendants - Daniela Alejandra Sanchez Ramirez, 25, Jhoan Sebastian Sanchez Ramirez, 29, Alexandra Patricia Sanchez Ramirez, 38, and Marlyn Yulitza Salazar Pineda, 24 - are accused of impersonating judges, law enforcement officers and lawyers to orchestrate sham immigration proceedings held over videoconference. Victims were led to believe their immigration cases had been resolved, resulting in them missing their actual court appearances. At least one victim was ordered deported due to the scheme, though the order was later reversed. The group is also accused of laundering tens of thousands of dollars of victims' funds.

• On February 21, 2026, the four defendants were arrested, with three apprehended at Newark Airport in New Jersey with one-way tickets to Colombia.
• The fifth defendant in the partially unsealed indictment is still not in U.S. custody.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow the three defendants arrested at the airport to be released on bail.