A calculated deception unfolded across several states, ensnaring U.S. military personnel in a complex marriage fraud scheme orchestrated by a Chinese transnational criminal organization. The goal: to exploit the promise of American citizenship and gain unauthorized access to sensitive military installations.
Eleven individuals now face charges in Florida, accused of participating in a network designed to circumvent U.S. immigration laws. The operation wasn’t about love; it was a cold, calculated transaction built on deceit and financial gain.
The scheme involved recruiting U.S. service members to enter into sham marriages with Chinese citizens. To create a facade of legitimacy, the participants meticulously staged photographs, attempting to portray believable, loving relationships for immigration authorities.
The financial incentives were clear and tiered. U.S. citizen spouses received an initial payment for agreeing to the marriage, followed by additional sums upon achieving legal immigration status for their partner, and a final payment upon divorce – a chillingly businesslike approach to a sacred institution.
Five former Navy service members – Raymond Zumba, Brinio Urena, Morgan Chambers, and Jacinth Bailey – have already admitted their involvement, pleading guilty to charges related to the conspiracy. Their sentencing awaits, a stark reminder of the consequences of their actions.
The conspiracy extended beyond fraudulent marriages, reaching into the realm of bribery. Federal prosecutors allege that Anny Chen, Hailing Feng, and Kin Man Cheok attempted to corrupt a public official to facilitate the scheme.
Raymond Zumba, a Navy Reserve member, allegedly offered a bribe to an employee at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and their spouse, who worked in the personnel office responsible for issuing military identification cards. The proposition was audacious: unauthorized ID cards in exchange for cash.
Unbeknownst to Zumba, the target of his bribery attempt was an undercover operative. The source immediately reported the scheme and continued communication with Zumba, allowing investigators to track the unfolding plot.
On February 13th, Zumba arrived in Jacksonville with Chen, Feng, and Cheok, driving all the way from New York. They gained access to the personnel office after hours, initiating the process for Chen and Cheok to obtain fraudulent identification cards.
The following day, Zumba handed over $3,500 in exchange for two illicit ID cards, only to be immediately apprehended by authorities. The cards were recovered, effectively dismantling this dangerous breach of security.
This case highlights the relentless efforts to safeguard national security against transnational criminal organizations. It serves as a potent warning: those who attempt to exploit the integrity of U.S. institutions will be met with swift and decisive action.
