The Context
Federal immigration authorities have charged four people for running a widespread marriage fraud operation aimed at securing immigration benefits.
Following a thorough investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), authorities uncovered a network involved in orchestrating fake marriages and filing fraudulent visa applications.
The accused include Ella Zuran, 65; Tatiana Sigal, 74; and Alexandra Tkach, 41, all from New York City, along with Shawnta Hopper, 33, of New Jersey. They now face conspiracy charges for committing marriage fraud.
What To Know
The investigation, backed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Maryland, resulted in the administrative arrest of 10 people on April 24. Authorities have since revoked immigration benefits granted to those connected to the fraudulent scheme.
“Marriage fraud is not a victimless crime — it compromises the integrity of our immigration system, diverts critical resources, and erodes public trust in a process that countless individuals follow legally and in good faith,” said ICE HSI Maryland Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy.
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer listens during a briefing on January 27, 2025, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Alex Brandon/AP
Launched in April 2022, the investigation fell under the Document and Benefit Fraud/El Dorado Task Force. During interviews, U.S. citizen petitioners admitted to accepting money in exchange for marrying foreign nationals so they could receive immigration advantages, according to an ICE press release.
HSI Maryland arrested Zuran, Sigal, and Tkach in March 2025. Authorities allege the trio arranged sham weddings, connected foreign nationals with U.S. citizens, and forged immigration documents—including fake health attestations. The suspects reportedly earned thousands of dollars for coordinating these fraudulent unions.
Hopper also faces charges for recruiting women from Baltimore and nearby areas to marry foreign nationals in exchange for money. Investigators say she received payment for persuading U.S. citizens to take part in the scheme.
Fraudulent marriages, often referred to as sham marriages, involve U.S. citizens entering marriages with foreign nationals solely to help them gain immigration benefits like permanent residency.
What People Are Saying
U.S. Attorney Kelly Hayes stated:
“The defendants’ greed led them to concoct an illegal-marriage scheme that compromises the integrity of our immigration system.”
“This indictment sends a clear message: the U.S. Attorney’s Office, along with our law enforcement partners, will relentlessly pursue and hold accountable those who try to exploit our immigration system through fraud and deception.”
ICE HSI Maryland Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy added:
“These arrests mark a critical milestone in our broader effort to dismantle a criminal network that has sought to undermine our nation’s immigration laws. HSI remains committed to safeguarding the lawful immigration process and holding accountable those who seek to exploit it.”
USCIS Spokesperson Matthew Tragesser remarked:
“Some marriages are made in heaven. Some are just made up.”
“Our work with ICE crushed a marriage fraud ring where U.S. citizens were paid to marry aliens. Under Secretary Noem, fraudsters are walking out in handcuffs. Buying a spouse doesn’t make you a citizen.”
Diplomatic Security Service Washington Field Office Special Agent in Charge David Richeson noted:
“The Diplomatic Security Service is a key partner in the United States’ work to reduce illegal immigration and root out those who endeavor to exploit the U.S. travel system.”
“DSS proudly coordinates with our U.S. and international law enforcement partners to investigate transnational crimes and apprehend fugitives who commit fraud and violate U.S. law.”
What Happens Next
Trial dates are yet to be announced. If convicted, the defendants could each face up to five years in federal prison.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Vikas Lalit is an experienced content writer at OTE News, covering business, economy, and international affairs. With a degree in Journalism, he combines analytical thinking with engaging storytelling to deliver well-researched updates. Vikas is passionate about uncovering underreported stories that impact readers.
Outside of work, he enjoys playing chess, following cricket, and writing short stories. His commitment to integrity and in-depth analysis strengthens OTE News’ mission of providing trustworthy journalism.
