Illegal alien sentenced for false claim to US citizenship and misuse of a social security number

NEW ORLEANS – A Mexican citizen was sentenced in federal court Thursday to four months imprisonment for making a false claim to U.S. citizenship following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO).

According to court documents, Roberto Guevara-Palomeque, 33, pleaded guilty on Oct. 27 to a two-count indictment charging him with making a false claim to U. S. citizenship and misuse of a social security number.

"As a nation, we must protect the integrity of our immigration system," said Philip Miller, field office director for ERO New Orleans. "While we are a welcoming country, we expect those wanting to immigrate here to do so in a safe, legal and orderly manner. If you choose to disregard our laws, you will be found, arrested and returned to your home country." Miller oversees ERO activities in the states of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee.

The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe La Rocca. For more information, visit www.ice.gov.