Full Breakdown
ICE Arrest of Peruvian National Accused of Illegal Voting in Kansas Election
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained Mariana Alexandra Dewey, a lawful permanent resident from Peru, after federal investigators determined she falsely claimed U.S. citizenship and cast a provisional ballot in the November 2024 general election in Sedgwick County, Kansas. Dewey submitted a voter-registration form, signed a penalty-of-perjury statement asserting citizenship, and later admitted to authorities that she was a permanent resident. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reports she subsequently pleaded guilty to disorderly election conduct under Kansas law and was taken into ICE custody in early September.
Background on Noncitizen Voting Enforcement
The arrest occurs amid a broader DHS initiative targeting noncitizens alleged to have voted in U.S. elections. The agency has highlighted recent cases involving individuals from Colombia, Slovakia, Australia, Mexico, Mauritania, and four noncitizens charged in New Jersey for similar offenses. DHS officials describe the effort as part of a “crackdown” to preserve election integrity.
Official Statements & Responses
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin issued a news release emphasizing that voting is a right reserved for U.S. citizens and asserting that any noncitizen participation undermines that right. The statement warned that the department will continue investigations, pursue criminal prosecution, and seek removal of noncitizens who vote to safeguard “free, fair and honest elections.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “This alien violated the sacred right of every American citizen,” — DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin
- “If even one noncitizen votes, that steals the voice of a U.S. citizen,” — Markwayne Mullin, DHS secretary