U Visa Fraud: Indian National Rambhai Patel's New York Scheme

U Visa Fraud: Indian National's New York Scheme Unveiled

Rambhai Patel, an Indian national residing in New York, has admitted to orchestrating a visa fraud scheme involving staged armed robberies.

Exploiting the U Visa Program

Patel exploited the U visa program, designed for victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement. He arranged fake robberies at restaurants and convenience stores, primarily in Massachusetts, enabling staff to fraudulently claim U visas.

Modus Operandi

In exchange, Patel received substantial payments from the supposed victims and compensated the store owners. The Justice Department revealed that these staged events began in March 2023, with at least nine locations targeted.

Staged Robberies and Surveillance

The fraudulent scheme involved creating the appearance of violent crime, complete with firearm threats captured on surveillance cameras. This allowed the store clerks to apply for U nonimmigrant status, falsely claiming mental and physical abuse.

The U Visa Explained

The U visa itself offers temporary legal status and work authorization to genuine victims who cooperate with investigations.