NEW YORK: In a major crackdown on immigration fraud, eleven Indian nationals have been charged by U.S. federal prosecutors for allegedly orchestrating a scheme involving staged armed robberies of convenience stores and restaurants. The goal, authorities say, was to fraudulently obtain U visas, which provide a path to permanent residency for crime victims.
The accused, all living unlawfully in the United States across states including Massachusetts, Kentucky, and Ohio, face one count each of conspiracy to commit visa fraud.
The Accused
The following individuals have been charged in the scheme:
- Jitendrakumar Patel (39)
- Maheshkumar Patel (36)
- Sanjaykumar Patel (45)
- Dipikaben Patel (40)
- Rameshbhai Patel (52)
- Amitabahen Patel (43)
- Ronakkumar Patel (28)
- Sangitaben Patel (36)
- Minkesh Patel (42)
- Sonal Patel (42)
- Mitul Patel (40)
According to the Justice Department, Dipikaben Patel has already been deported to India. The others were arrested on March 13, with some appearing in federal court in Boston and others in Kentucky, Missouri, and Ohio. They will face further proceedings in Boston at a later date.
The Scheme: Staged Robberies for Visas
According to charging documents, the conspiracy dates back to at least March 2023. The mastermind, identified as “Rambhai,” allegedly organized and carried out staged armed robberies at a minimum of six convenience stores, liquor stores, and fast food restaurants in Massachusetts and elsewhere.
| Element of the Scheme | Details |
|---|---|
| The “Crime” | Staged armed robberies, with a “robber” threatening clerks with an apparent firearm. |
| The Purpose | To allow store clerks (the “victims”) to falsely claim they were victims of a violent crime. |
| The Visa Goal | To apply for a U Visa, which is available to victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement, and offers a path to a Green Card. |
| The Payment | The “victims” allegedly paid Rambhai to participate. Rambhai, in turn, paid store owners for the use of their establishments. |
| The Delay | Participants waited five or more minutes after the staged robbery before calling police, to avoid suspicion. |
What is a U Visa?
A U Visa is a non-immigration status available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. It provides the holder with work authorization and a pathway to a Green Card within 5 to 10 years.
By staging the robberies, the defendants aimed to create false documentation of a crime, allowing them to meet the U Visa requirements.
Potential Penalties
The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud carries serious consequences. If convicted, each defendant faces:
- A sentence of up to five years in prison
- Up to three years of supervised release
- A fine of $250,000
Rambhai, the alleged organizer, along with the individuals who played the roles of “robber” and getaway driver, have already been previously charged and convicted in connection with the scheme.
