Home / Crime and Justice / Feds Bust Decade-Long Marriage Fraud Scheme
Feds Bust Decade-Long Marriage Fraud Scheme
21 Oct
Summary
- Alleged ringleader advertised Massachusetts as a sanctuary for illegal immigrants.
- Sham marriage scheme generated over $6 million in profits.
- Six individuals were charged in connection with the decade-long operation.
Federal authorities have charged six individuals in a fraudulent marriage ring that operated for over ten years, amassing an estimated $6 million in profits. The alleged mastermind, Jennifer Gonzalez, a U.S. citizen, is accused of arranging 18 to 20 sham marriages annually, charging between $38,000 and $40,000 per marriage.
Gonzalez reportedly advertised Massachusetts as a "sanctuary" for illegal immigrants to engage in fraud. She is also said to have invested proceeds from her illegal activities in property and businesses in the Dominican Republic. The six defendants, all residing in or near Fall River, Massachusetts, face charges including marriage fraud, harboring illegal aliens, and conspiracy.
If convicted, the defendants could face up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $500,000. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Leah Foley, who detailed the scheme's duration and financial scale.
