A recent multi-agency investigation has led to the arrest of 18 individuals involved in immigration-related identity theft and fraud. The effort was led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa and included coordination with the Department of Transportation, the Social Security Administration, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
According to officials, the individuals apprehended were involved in a sophisticated scheme to misuse Social Security numbers and provide false information in order to obtain employment in the U.S. Charges include aggravated identity theft, misuse of government documents, and making false statements regarding citizenship.
The Scope of the Operation
Among those charged were Luvin Daniel Hernandez Amador, Elvin Donahel Hernandez Amador, and others, primarily from Honduras. The alleged crimes spanned several years, from 2023 to 2025. One individual, Erlin Maradiaga-Flores, pled guilty and was sentenced to two years in federal prison in October 2024. Another suspect, Cristian Daniel Diaz-Garcia, is awaiting trial.
Authorities believe the group was part of a larger network exploiting gaps in the immigration and employment systems. Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation to uncover the full extent of the operation.
Targeting Transnational Crime
Law enforcement sources emphasized the growing sophistication of criminal organizations that use identity theft and fraud to infiltrate legitimate employment sectors. Officials noted the involvement of known criminal groups that have previously engaged in activities such as drug trafficking, smuggling, and financial crimes.
Two groups, MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, have been linked to a wide range of criminal operations. Both are transnational in scope and have been subject to extensive investigations in the United States for years. Law enforcement agencies continue to pursue members and associates of these groups with the aim of dismantling their networks.
Cooperation Among Agencies
This operation is part of a larger federal initiative to combat criminal activity associated with immigration fraud and document misuse. Officials stress the importance of inter-agency cooperation and data sharing in identifying and arresting individuals involved in these schemes.
The operation also highlights ongoing efforts to secure the U.S. border and prevent the entry of individuals involved in criminal enterprises. Recent reports indicate a significant drop in the number of individuals evading border apprehension, though authorities continue to treat any unauthorized entry as a concern.
Public Safety and Ongoing Enforcement
Law enforcement officials emphasized that their primary goal is to protect the public and ensure the integrity of government systems. They reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing immigration and employment laws, especially in cases where criminal behavior is involved.
Efforts to combat identity theft, fraud, and criminal infiltration remain a top priority for agencies nationwide. Officials urge employers, local communities, and state partners to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity that could indicate identity fraud or misuse of government documents.
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