A Houston immigration attorney has been indicted and arrested for allegedly defrauding clients seeking work visas by failing to file their applications properly.
A Houston-area immigration attorney, Alla Nowowiejski, 44, is facing federal charges after being accused of defrauding clients who sought her assistance in obtaining work visas and changing their immigration status. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas announced her indictment on charges of mail fraud and making false statements in connection with her legal practice.
According to federal prosecutors, clients paid Nowowiejski for help with their immigration applications. However, the indictment alleges that she either failed to submit some applications entirely or submitted them only partially. This failure to act left many clients without the legal status they sought.
The allegations against Nowowiejski extend beyond incomplete applications. Investigators claim that she provided clients with documents and case numbers associated with other active immigration cases. These materials were allegedly presented in a manner that misled clients into believing their own immigration matters were being handled by immigration authorities.
The investigation that led to Nowowiejski’s indictment and arrest was a collaborative effort involving the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. The Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 1, also played a role in the investigation.
If convicted, Nowowiejski could face severe penalties, including a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. It is important to note that the charges are merely allegations at this stage, and an indictment does not equate to guilt. Nowowiejski is presumed innocent until proven guilty through due process of law.
This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding immigration fraud and the importance of ensuring that clients receive legitimate legal assistance. As investigations continue, the implications for both the accused and the broader immigration community remain significant.
For further details, see the information provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas.