Story perspectives

Colombian Nationals Arrested for Immigration Fraud Scheme

2/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Four Colombian nationals were arrested for impersonating immigration judges and federal agents to exploit migrants.
Siblings Daniela, Jhoan, and Alexandra Sanchez Ramirez were apprehended at Newark Airport, while Marlyn Yulitza Salazar Pineda was arrested at a New Jersey restaurant.
Prosecutors allege they conducted sham immigration proceedings via videoconference, misleading victims and resulting in at least one facing deportation.
The group operated a fake law firm, charging fees for nonexistent legal services and laundering over $100,000 from victims.
All four defendants face multiple charges, including wire fraud and impersonation.

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Story summary

Four Colombian nationals were arrested for impersonating immigration judges and federal agents to exploit migrants.
Siblings Daniela, Jhoan, and Alexandra Sanchez Ramirez were apprehended at Newark Airport, while Marlyn Yulitza Salazar Pineda was arrested at a New Jersey restaurant.
Prosecutors allege they conducted sham immigration proceedings via videoconference, misleading victims and resulting in at least one facing deportation.
The group operated a fake law firm, charging fees for nonexistent legal services and laundering over $100,000 from victims.
All four defendants face multiple charges, including wire fraud and impersonation.