Two Indian-origin men, Rambhai Patel, 36, and Balwinder Singh, 39, have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their involvement in a visa fraud conspiracy, which included staging armed robberies.
Charges and Arrests
Patel and Singh face one count each of conspiracy to commit visa fraud in Boston, Massachusetts. Patel, arrested in Seattle last December, remains in detention pending trial. Singh, arrested in Queens at the same time, was released on conditions after an initial appearance in December 2023.
Staged Armed Robberies Across the U.S.
According to charging documents, starting in March 2023, Patel and his co-conspirators, including Singh at times, orchestrated at least nine staged armed robberies in convenience/liquor stores and fast-food restaurants across the United States, with five incidents reported in Massachusetts.
Purpose: U Visa Application Fraud
The alleged purpose of these staged robberies was to enable store clerks to claim victimhood of a violent crime on U non-immigration status (U Visa) applications. A U Visa is granted to victims of certain crimes who have suffered abuse and assisted law enforcement in criminal investigations.
Modus Operandi
During the staged robberies, the “robber” would threaten store clerks or owners with an apparent firearm, capture the interaction on store surveillance video, and flee with cash. The clerks or owners would then wait for the “robber” to escape before reporting the crime to the police. Victims are accused of paying Patel to participate in the scheme.
Financial Transactions
One individual allegedly paid $20,000 to participate as a victim, and Patel purportedly compensated store owners for the use of their establishments in the staged robberies.
Visa Fraud Charges and Penalties
The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.
U Visa Applications Based on Staged Robberies
At least two alleged victim co-conspirators are said to have submitted U Visa applications, claiming victimization from the staged armed robberies.
Legal Proceedings
The legal process is ongoing, with Patel detained and Singh released under certain conditions after their respective arrests in connection with the visa fraud conspiracy involving staged armed robberies. The charges, if proven, could lead to significant penalties for the accused.
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