Jesus Carlos Silva, a Houston resident, pleaded guilty to committing mail and wire fraud by impersonating an immigration attorney, from March 2022 to December 2024, as reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas.
Silva deceived more than 100 people across Houston, Chicago, Louisiana, and Florida, amassing over $1.4 million from the victims.
He falsely promised assistance with obtaining U.S. citizenship and legal immigration status, requesting payments via checks and money orders.
Silva instructed victims to attend fake appointments and provided no legitimate assistance or services related to immigration.
After collecting payments, he cut off communication with the victims, leaving them without the promised services.
Law enforcement officials charged Silva with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud following an investigation.
Silva is scheduled for sentencing on September 22, and faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office advises individuals to seek assistance only from licensed immigration attorneys or accredited representatives.
