EMPORIA, Kan. — What began as an attempt to serve an arrest warrant in late April has led to the uncovering of a complex criminal operation in Lyon County, involving fake IDs, identity theft, drug possession, unlicensed dentistry, and even human smuggling.
According to the Emporia Police Department, the investigation escalated after a search warrant at an east Emporia residence turned up narcotics and suspected fraudulent documents. Subsequent searches and investigative work uncovered a larger network allegedly involved in producing and distributing false identification documents, including fake Social Security cards, ID cards, and driver’s licenses.
Authorities executed over 10 search warrants, seized two vehicles, and recovered approximately $6,000 in cash. Eight individuals have been arrested and charged as part of this ongoing case:
Arrestees and Charges:
Francisco German Pichardo-Machado
Charges: Making False Information, Marijuana Possession, Drug Paraphernalia
Martin Pichardo-Machado
Charges: Making False Information, Marijuana Possession, Drug Paraphernalia, Identity Fraud
Hugo Antonio Cardona-Argueta
Charges: Marijuana Possession, Drug Paraphernalia, Interference with Law Enforcement, Making False Information, Identity Theft
Martha Kenia Lopez-Alvarado
Charges: Marijuana Possession, Drug Paraphernalia, Interference with Law Enforcement, Making False Information, Identity Theft
Iris Tatiana Sandoval-Flores
Charges: Human Smuggling, Identity Theft, Dealing in False IDs, Unlicensed Practice of Dentistry/Dental Hygiene
Ana Raquel Figueroa
Charges: Unlicensed Dentistry, Unlawful Prescription Drug Acquisition
Rigoberto J. Sandoval
Charges: Unlicensed Dentistry, Unlawful Prescription Drug Acquisition
Edward Joharly Benavides-Salgado
Charges: Identity Theft
Court documents revealed that several alleged criminal activities dated back to January 2023.
Upcoming Court Appearances:
Iris Sandoval-Flores – Preliminary hearing: May 29
Rigoberto Sandoval – Pretrial hearing: June 2
Ana Figueroa – Pretrial hearing: June 2
Francisco German Pichardo-Machado – Preliminary hearing: June 10
Martin Pichardo-Machado – Preliminary hearing: June 10
Hugo Antonio Cardona-Argueta – Preliminary hearing: June 10
Martha Kenia Lopez-Alvarado – Preliminary hearing: June 10
Edward Joharly Benavides-Salgado – Hearing date pending
Authorities suggest more details could emerge as the investigation continues. Residents are encouraged to follow KVOE News, KVOE.com, and KVOE social media for updates.
