The recent guilty plea by Liene Tavares DeBarros, Jr., a Brazilian national living in Woburn, Massachusetts, highlights the serious consequences individuals face when unlawfully reentering the United States and engaging in identity document fraud. DeBarros had previously been deported in 2010 but later returned to the U.S. illegally. He was caught in 2024 selling counterfeit Social Security and Legal Permanent Resident cards—commonly known as “Green Cards”—to undercover law enforcement officers, charging up to $500 for multiple fake documents.
Unlawful reentry after deportation is a federal offense that carries up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Individuals convicted of this crime are also subject to removal from the U.S. upon completion of their sentence. When paired with the fraudulent sale of government-issued identity documents—a violation that carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison—the consequences become even more severe.
Federal prosecutors take these crimes seriously because they undermine the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and public safety. The production and distribution of fake identification can enable further criminal conduct, including employment fraud, tax evasion, and benefits fraud. Law enforcement agencies like Homeland Security Investigations and the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General actively investigate these schemes as part of dedicated task forces designed to detect and disrupt document and benefit fraud.
For individuals charged with these offenses, it is crucial to understand the gravity of the situation and seek experienced legal counsel. Federal judges impose sentences based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and convictions often result in long-term legal and immigration consequences. Anyone accused of such crimes should act quickly to protect their rights and prepare a strong defense.
At Dhar Law, LLP, we have defended many immigration and criminal cases in state and federal courts. Your rights matter. Don’t face these charges alone. Contact our award-winning team today at 617-880-6155
