Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
Merrick B. Garland, Attorney General | https://www.justice.gov/
Cesar Alvarez-Espinal, a Honduran national, has pleaded guilty to using a fraudulent Social Security number to secure employment. This announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson on February 20, 2025. The offense violates Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
Alvarez-Espinal could face up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. A mandatory special assessment fee of $100 will also be imposed.
Court documents reveal that in November 2024, Homeland Security Investigations received reports of individuals using fake Social Security cards for job applications. Before finalizing employment with their potential employer, these individuals had to report to the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. This council provides safety courses for applicants seeking work with companies servicing petrochemical processing plants.
On November 13, 2024, Alvarez-Espinal presented a counterfeit U.S. Social Security card at the Gulf Coast Safety Council office. The card displayed the name and number of a U.S. citizen which he claimed as his own for employment purposes.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson commended Homeland Security Investigations for their role in this case's investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri from the General Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution.
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