Miami Pastor, Accomplice Charged in $21K Immigration Fraud Scheme
MIAMI, Fla. — Nelson David Ochoa-Vasquez, a 46-year-old pastor at La Iglesia de Dios Jireh, and Ismer Gonzalez face multiple felony charges for their alleged involvement in a months-long immigration fraud operation that exploited vulnerable immigrants.
According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, Ochoa-Vasquez used his trusted role within the church community to connect congregants and others seeking immigration help to Gonzalez, who falsely presented himself as a licensed immigration attorney.
Victims paid thousands for supposed legal services that were never provided, resulting in losses estimated at $21,000. Authorities say at least 16 people were defrauded.
Ochoa-Vasquez is charged with organized fraud exceeding $20,000 and second-degree grand theft. Gonzalez faces additional charges, including practicing law without a license.
Dubbed “Operation Stolen Dream,” the investigation underscores the dangers immigrants face when seeking legal help and the critical need to verify credentials.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information related to the case to come forward as the probe continues.
