Federal investigation leads to arrest of 13 immigrants in Paducah employment fraud case
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI) — Federal authorities arrested 13 immigrants during an operation in Paducah that investigators say uncovered the fraudulent use of Social Security numbers to obtain employment at a window supply business.
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and its federal partners determined that between June 2021 and August 2025, eight individuals allegedly used Social Security numbers assigned to U.S. citizens to complete employment eligibility verification forms and secure jobs.
A federal grand jury indicted eight people on charges related to the use of false Social Security numbers. Those charged include:
- Daniel Martinez Cruz, 22, of Mexico
- Manuel Martinez Garcia, 32, of Mexico
- Joel Gomez, 63, of Guatemala
- Juan Pastor Gonzalez, 36, of Guatemala
- Julio Venture Hernandez, 29, of Mexico
- Marcelina Juarez-Vicente, 33, of Guatemala
- Ricardo Lopez, 23, of Guatemala
- Ana Osorio Louzado, 23, of Spain
Federal officials said the remaining five individuals arrested but not criminally charged will remain in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings.
Investigators allege the defendants used stolen Social Security numbers belonging to U.S. citizens on Form I-9 employment verification documents, allowing them to obtain unauthorized employment and misuse personal identifying information.
If convicted, each defendant faces up to five years in federal prison.
The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
