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Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Gujarati man sentenced to 12 years in US for living illegally, defrauding elderly
Representative image AHMEDABAD: A Gujarati man living illegally in the US for 12 years was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for his role in a fraud scheme that targeted elderly people in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The conviction was announced by the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Illinois on Tuesday. Nirav Patel, 44, who hails from North Gujarat, was convicted in February by a federal jury. The charges included one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and one count of illegal entry into the United States, said officers. 'This illegal alien (Patel) admitted that he came to Illinois because the state would give him a driver's license, and then he used that license to steal from the elderly all across the Midwest,' said US Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. The fraud was carried out as an imposter scam. Victims received texts or emails saying their Amazon accounts were compromised. When they responded, they were connected to fraudsters pretending to be federal agents. The victims were told to withdraw their savings for protection against supposed identity theft and deposit the funds into fake US govt accounts. In reality, the money was stolen and sent to accounts in India controlled by the scammers, said officers. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Click Here To Read More - micro segmentation software Expertinspector Click Here Undo Patel worked as a courier, personally collecting cash, gold, and other assets from the victims. According to trial evidence, he once picked up $177,000 worth of gold bars from an elderly woman using a walker and oxygen at her assisted living facility. 'These scams need people on the ground in the US in order to be successful, and those willing to help them should receive stiff sentences,' the court said during sentencing. Patel entered the US illegally near Vancouver. He later connected with the fraud group in Georgia and moved to Chicago. There, he obtained a driver's license illegally and travelled through Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana to collect money on behalf of the network. 'This case highlights the serious public safety risks posed by individuals who enter the United States illegally and exploit our systems to target some of the most vulnerable among us,' said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Matthew Scarpino. The Federal Trade Commission reported in March 2025 that imposter scams are now the most common type of consumer fraud in the US.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Candidate Profile: Michael K. 'Mike' Lamonea (House District 89 Republican Primary)
Michael K. 'Mike' Lamonea is a candidate for House District 89 and is running as a Republican. His name will appear on the June 17, 2025 ballot. Lamonea is running against challenger Kristen Shannon in the June Republican primary. The winner will appear on the ballot for the General Election on Nov. 4. If you are voting in this election, from May 2 through June 14 you can vote early at your On Election Day, polls in Virginia are open from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. Don't forget to bring your ID. to see who is on your ballot. 10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race, with a request for a bio and a list of questions to answer. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one. Candidate Profiles Name: Michael K. 'Mike' LamoneaAge: 52Website: Mike Lamonea retired from ICE Homeland Security Investigations after serving our country for over 26 years as a Special Agent – about a decade of which he served as the Executive over multiple offices in Southeastern Virginia. He was subsequently appointed by Governor Youngkin as the Chair of Virginia's Human Trafficking Commission, was elected to serve on the Chesapeake School Board where he is a member of the School Safety Task Force, and is currently a business leader for a global computer networking company. Mr. Lamonea is married with four children and he has a long history of community service leadership roles in our region. He's a long-time resident in the Western Branch area of Chesapeake, all his kids have graduated from or are attending the Science and Medicine Academy at Deep Creek High School, and his wife was born and raised in Suffolk in the house where his in-laws still reside in the 89th District. With his experience and deep roots throughout the district, Mr. Lamonea brings a results-driven mindset to government focused on lowering the cost of living, enhancing public safety, and improving education. I'm running to ensure working families and small businesses in the 89th District have a strong voice in Richmond. Our region deserves leadership that puts service above politics and focuses on practical solutions to real problems—like improving education, reducing inflationary pressures, and keeping our community safe. As a committed conservative and Chesapeake School Board member, I know what it takes to keep our kids safe at school, fund more dollars into the classroom, ensure parents have a voice in their children's education, and attain high standards of education. As a family man and business leader, I understand the financial pressures Virginians face day to day and the need to put more money back in their pockets by cutting taxes—especially the car and grocery taxes. And as a retired ICE Homeland Security Investigations leader, I have seen firsthand how crime and illegal immigration go hand in hand – and I will work across the aisle to pass policies that get tough on criminal illegal aliens and make every family safer. The 89th district has been amazing to my family and as a public servant, both professionally and personally, I believe I have the qualifications and experience to make a significant difference and continue giving back to our community. As a former ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent and Executive, Chair of Virginia's Human Trafficking Commission, elected member of the Chesapeake School Board, leader in various community organizations, and current business Director for a global computer networking company, I've established and led numerous teams, balanced major budgets, and solved complex problems under tremendous pressure. I know what it takes to lead, manage responsibly, work collaboratively, and deliver results – skills I will bring to the General Assembly to tirelessly serve the people of the 89th District. In my first session, I would sponsor a bill to increase funding and support for local law enforcement agencies; specifically, to improve officer recruitment and retention. Public safety is a top priority, and we must ensure all of our first responders have the resources, training, and personnel they need to keep our neighborhoods safe while building strong and respectful relationships within the communities they serve. Backing the blue is not just a slogan: to me it is deeply personal. We need to have the backs of the officers who have ours and that starts with passing common sense policies to give them the tools they need to get the job done and get the bad guys off the streets. I believe in transparency and accountability in all campaign fundraising. I will accept lawful donations that align with my values, but no contribution will ever influence my vote or priorities as your Delegate. Yes. While I'm proud to be a Republican, my loyalty is to the people of the 89th District. If party leadership supports a measure that doesn't serve our community, I won't hesitate to stand up and vote my conscience on behalf of the citizens I serve. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Yahoo
ICE Central Florida raids: At least 30 fled during worksite bust in Wildwood, agents said
The Brief ICE arrested 33 undocumented immigrants at construction sites near The Villages on May 13. At least 30 people fled, officials said. The raid is part of Florida's broader crackdown on illegal immigration and unverified employment. Locals are divided—some support enforcement, while others express concern for affected families. WILDWOOD, Fla. - At least thirty people fled during a construction site raid conducted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Sumter County on Tuesday. Now agents are searching for those who fled the scene. What we know On Tuesday, a multi-agency raid led by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa resulted in the arrest of 33 undocumented immigrants at construction sites near The Villages. The individuals arrested were from Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala. Four of them face felony charges for illegally reentering the U.S. after previous deportations. Officials interviewed more than 360 people during the enforcement action, and over 30 individuals reportedly fled the sites as agents arrived. What we don't know Officials have not disclosed how many of the individuals who fled have been located or whether any employers will face charges for hiring undocumented workers. The legal outcomes for the arrested individuals and whether additional operations are planned in the region also remain unclear. The backstory The operation is part of Florida's broader crackdown on illegal immigration, aligning with recent state and federal enforcement priorities. Targeted worksite enforcement actions have become more common as authorities attempt to hold employers accountable and address undocumented labor in industries such as construction. The Villages, known as one of the fastest-growing retirement communities in the U.S., became the backdrop for this high-profile enforcement action. The event highlights ongoing tensions over immigration enforcement in Florida's rapidly expanding communities. What they're saying Some residents welcomed the crackdown, citing concerns over job competition and immigration law violations. "I'm from Texas, I live here in The Villages, but we have a lot of illegals here working and taking American jobs," said resident Jillayne Clausen. "They don't learn," added Jim Mick, another local. "I'm glad to see somebody is taking care of something. If they are here illegally, there's a right way and a wrong way to do it." Others expressed concern and empathy for the families affected, especially those with school-aged children. "I know that some that were taken yesterday, some are moms, a lot were dads, brothers, uncles," said Brandi Irving, also from The Villages. "It just really breaks my heart, because they came home and didn't have them. They were shocked they didn't have them when they got home." HSI Tampa emphasized employer responsibility and promoted participation in the IMAGE program (ICE Mutual Agreement Between Government and Employers), designed to help companies verify the legal status of their workers. STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO: Download the FOX Local app for breaking news alerts, the latest news headlines Download the FOX 35 Storm Team Weather app for weather alerts & radar Sign up for FOX 35's daily newsletter for the latest morning headlines FOX Local:Stream FOX 35 newscasts, FOX 35 News+, Central Florida Eats on your smart TV The Source This story was written based on information shared by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa.
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
House District 89 Republican primary: Mike Lamonea faces Kristen Shannon
The Virginia House of Delegates District 89 race will be among the most competitive in the commonwealth as it's an open seat up for grabs. Republican incumbent Baxter Ennis, who served one term, isn't running for re-election. Republicans Mike Lamonea and Kristen Shannon will face off in the primary election on June 17 for a two-year term. Democrats are also holding a primary. The district covers part of Suffolk and a significant chunk of western Chesapeake. Early voting begins May 2. ___ Age: 52 Employment: Director, Juniper Networks; Retired special agent and executive with ICE Homeland Security Investigations Education: Bachelor's degree, University of Scranton Previous elected offices: Chesapeake School Board, 2022-present Party affiliation: Republican Website: What is your top priority if elected and how would you work across the aisle to accomplish it? My top priority when elected to the House of Delegates will be to ensure Virginia is one of the safest states in our nation for our citizens to work, play, and raise a family. Our commonwealth has a constitutional responsibility to protect the health and safety of its citizens; therefore, this should be a non-partisan issue. To be prosperous, our communities must be safe, secure, and free of crime — and that includes our schools where students and staff deserve environments to thrive without worry. On day one, I plan to introduce legislation to properly fund our first responders so that they have the tools and resources necessary to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Overall, I am committed to working across both sides of the aisle to ensure a strong security infrastructure not only in Chesapeake and Suffolk, but throughout Virginia as a whole. What is the best way for Virginia to respond to federal funding cuts to the state? As a former federal employee and leader, I know firsthand that there are ways for the government to become more efficient — both on federal and state levels. However, we must ensure that any cuts made to spending within our commonwealth are necessary and effective. We must be good stewards of state funds, cutting out unnecessary waste while ensuring our citizens receive the help they need when they need it. Should billionaires like Elon Musk and George Soros be able to contribute unlimited amounts of money to Virginia candidates? If yes, why? If no, what would you do if elected to office to enact campaign finance limits? Virginia has one of the most transparent campaign finance systems in the country with regular reporting to reveal where donations come from and how that money is used. Unfortunately, campaign finance limits that have been passed elsewhere have done nothing but create a shadow campaign apparatus of unaccountable PACs and other entities. For this reason, I would oppose campaign finance limits to maintain Virginia's transparency but remain open to discussions to further improve the process. ___ Age: 44 Employment: Owner/Attorney, Shannon & Associates, P.C. Education: Bachelor's of Arts in criminal justice, Marshall University; Juris Doctor, Regent University School of Law Party affiliation: Republican Website: What is your top priority if elected and how would you work across the aisle to accomplish it? My top priority if elected is to bring common sense values to Richmond. Families in my district are hurting because of high taxes and government overreach. Citizens in my district deserve an advocate who will fight for safer communities, higher performing schools, and protection against overdevelopment. Veterans and their families deserve an advocate who will fight for them to retain promised benefits, such as Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP), and to eliminate taxing their retirement. I am willing to work across the aisle to accomplish these goals without compromising the values held in the 89th. What is the best way for Virginia to respond to federal funding cuts to the state? Virginia should respond to federal funding cuts by embracing greater fiscal responsibility, reducing dependence on federal dollars, and empowering local governance. As a small business owner and as a mother who budgets for my family, I know the importance of prioritizing responsible spending and living within our means. Eliminating wasteful spending and reducing the size of state government is an effective response to reduced federal funding. Should billionaires like Elon Musk and George Soros be able to contribute unlimited amounts of money to Virginia candidates? If yes, why? If no, what would you do if elected to office to enact campaign finance limits? As an attorney, I have been defending citizens' constitutional rights for 20 years. Grounded in the First Amendment and principles of individual liberty, a person's ability to support a candidate financially should not be limited or legislated. Rather than limiting them, I would support measures to increase transparency in campaign contributions.
Fox News
14-04-2025
- Fox News
ICE, ATF capture fugitive in multinational manhunt wanted for 'brutal murder' in the Caribbean
A fugitive wanted in connection with a murder has been captured by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, after escaping custody twice in the Caribbean. On April 4, Orville Andrew Pernell, a 32-year-old Jamaican citizen, was apprehended by ICE Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives special agents in Savannah, Georgia, following an extensive investigation and multinational manhunt. ICE officials said Pernell is accused of committing a "brutal murder" in St Lucia in 2020 and had been a fugitive for several years. "After a long run from justice, he's finally back in custody and facing the consequences," HSI Atlanta wrote in a post on X, along with Pernell's image. Pernell escaped from custody in St. Lucia during his murder trial and fled to Jamaica, officials said. Additionally, officials said Pernell was arrested in Jamaica in 2021 and escaped from custody there as well. U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered Pernell on Dec. 7, 2022, near San Ysidro, California, after he attempted to enter the United States using a fake identity, authorities said. He was paroled into the country and given a notice to appear. Pernell was arrested by the Clayton County Sheriff in Clayton County, Georgia for the possession of a stolen motorcycle and attempting to evade arrest in July 2023. Police also found a stolen 9mm handgun in Pernell's possession during the arrest. Pernell was located by agents from multiple agencies and arrested in the Savannah area, where he was taken into custody without incident. Officials said Pernell faces charges of being an alien in possession of a weapon, and will stand trial for murder after he is extradited back to St. Lucia. "We are committed to tracking down fugitives who pose a serious threat to public safety, no matter where they may try to hide," said ICE HSI Special Agent in Charge Atlanta Steven N. Schrank, who also covers Georgia and Alabama. "This operation highlights our ongoing work to dismantle criminal networks and bring violent individuals to justice. We are thankful for our local, state, and international law enforcement partners who helped us secure this arrest." Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to
