Another million-dollar fake visa scheme foiled
On March 24, 2007, Maria Maximo pleaded guilty in a New York court to defrauding immigrants with promises of a USCIS work permit that never existed. At $500 to $2,500/person, Ms. Maximo made over $1 million and shattered the hopes and dreams of thousands of immigrants and their families. According to the news report, the government may require her to make restitution to her victims. My question is whether, in the current climate of fierce anti-immigrant sentiments, any of them will actually be willing to step out of the shadows to request that compensation. It’s more likely that they will hide, avoid seeking help from social service agencies and police, and never trust an immigration attorney again. This woman is a disgrace.
