Common Immigration-Related Offenses
According to research, immigration-related cases comprise a significant portion of the federal criminal caseload. Research suggests that in Fiscal Year 2021, immigration-related cases accounted for almost 30% of all cases. The U.S. takes immigration-related cases very seriously. If you are found guilty of an immigration offense, you could face severe penalties. You could be required to pay huge fines, imprisoned, or even deported. At Mark I. Cohen, Esq., we strive to educate people so they can stay out of trouble. In this article, we will be discussing some of the common immigration-related crimes.
Common Immigration-Related Crimes
It is vital for everyone to know about the most common immigration-related offenses seen in NY and across the United States. This way, you can avoid committing these crimes. In the event that you or someone you know is charged with committing an immigration-related offense, it is crucial to seek the help of a qualified immigration attorney.
The following are some of the common immigration-related crimes seen in New York and across the United States;
Illegal Entry and Re-Entry
The law makes it a crime to enter or try to enter the United States without authorization. There are three ways in which a person may enter the U.S. illegally. They are;
- Entering or trying to enter the U.S. at a time or place other than as designated by immigration officers,
- Trying to enter the U.S. or obtain entry by intentionally making a false or misleading claim or hiding a material fact, or
- Evading inspection or examination by immigration officers.
It is also illegal for someone previously denied admission or removed from the country to enter, try to enter, or be found in the U.S. without prior authorization.
Visa Overstay
If a visitor overstays the time limit of their visa, either intentionally or unintentionally, they may face harsh consequences. If you realize you have overstayed your visa, it is crucial that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal options.
Visa Fraud and False Statements
The law prohibits knowingly counterfeiting, forging, altering, or falsifying visas, permits, and other immigration-related documents. It is also illegal to deliberately use a falsified identification document or make a false attestation. Such crimes can result in a person spending up to 25 years behind bars.
Smuggling in Aliens
This offense occurs when you transport, harbor, or help people illegally enter the United States. You can be charged with this crime even if the smuggled alien(s) had prior authorization to enter the United States. The offense of smuggling in aliens can result in harsh penalties, including up to ten years in federal prison.
Marriage Fraud
Marriage fraud occurs when a foreign citizen marries a U.S. citizen for the sole purpose of escaping immigration laws. If convicted of this crime, you could spend up to five years in prison.
Passport Fraud
It is a crime to knowingly and intentionally lie in a passport application or try to use a passport secured by lies. If convicted of passport fraud, you risk paying a huge fine and spending up to 25 years in prison.
Legal Help Is Available
If you or someone you know is accused of committing an immigration-related offense, do not hesitate to contact our NYC immigration attorney, Mark I. Cohen. We can review your situation and help determine the best way to proceed.
Source:
sgp.fas.org/crs/homesec/IF11410.pdf
