Senator Serrano Joins Attorney General Cuomo to Denounce Fraudulent Immigration Services

(New York, NY)- Senator José M. Serrano joined New York State Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo, and Assemblyman Adriano Espaillat, to announce a lawsuit by the Attorney General's Office against two companies that provided fraudulent and unauthorized immigration services to countless victims in New York City.  The lawsuits were filed against International Immigrants Foundation, Inc. ("IIF"), International Professional Association, Inc. ("IPA"), and their President Edward Juarez, all operating in New York City and generating millions of dollars each year.

"Undocumented immigrants are particularly vulnerable to predatory companies because they live in fear of exposure," said Serrano. "However, they are protected by Executive Order 41, which gives them access to vital city services, and also protects confidential information, such as their immigration status. This despicable behavior goes against all of this country's values and ideals, and these fraudulent organizations must be stopped."

The Attorney General's lawsuit seeks to prevent these organizations from continuing their fraudulent practices and seeks restitution for victims. This case is part of Attorney General Cuomo's ongoing investigation into immigrant fraud, and his office is working with various New York legal associations to help handle existing cases, and to protect those who have been victimized by the deceptive organizations.

"I look forward to continuing to work with Attorney General Cuomo to combat immigration fraud and help secure the future of those who come to New York with hopes of a better life," said Serrano. "Immigrants are the lifeblood of my district- and of this country. Defrauding them is not only an injustice to an integral segment of the Latino population, but to all New Yorkers.

 "I have shown my commitment to the immigrant community in the past, and I will continue working to make New York City a safe place for all who seek the American dream."

Victims of immigration fraud may contact the Attorney General's Immigration Services Fraud Unit Hotline at (866) 390-2992 or visit www.ag.ny.gov.