(Office of the Attorney General) – Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt announced that Norma Olga Benavidez, 60, of Las Vegas, was sentenced for theft, a category “B” felony. Benavidez orchestrated an immigration scam, stealing tens of thousands of dollars from multiple victims between March 2012 and March 2014.
Norma Olga Benavidez
As part of the immigration scam, Benavidez victimized those seeking legal status in the United States by falsely claiming to be a federal government employee who worked closely with a fictitious person she identified as the “Chief of Immigration.” She falsely promised victims that she could assist them with paperwork related to their lawful status in the United States in exchange for significant fees, totaling more than $50,000. In reality, Benavidez could not and did not perform the promised services.
Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt
“Fraudulent immigration service providers prey on unsuspecting immigrants trying to navigate the system,” said Laxalt. “This office will continue to protect the integrity of the legal immigration system, and prosecute those who commit these pernicious scams.”
Eighth Judicial District Court Judge Stefany Miley sentenced Benavidez to 28-72 months in prison. She was also ordered to pay more than $53,000 in restitution to 11 different victims, and $3,500 in investigative and prosecution costs.
This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy Attorney General Samuel Kern.
To file a complaint with our office about someone suspected of committing a theft, click here. To view the Indictment, click here.
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