PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — A 31-year-old woman accused of impersonating an immigration attorney and court-affiliated worker to defraud vulnerable individuals is now in custody following a growing investigation.
Authorities arrested Mitzy Mariel Farfan on Thursday. She appeared before a judge the next day and is currently being held at the Palm Beach County Jail on a $50,000 bond. She faces charges including scheme to defraud and grand theft.
Investigators say Farfan targeted people dealing with immigration-related legal challenges, falsely promising assistance with legal representation, deportation prevention, and release from custody. Officials emphasized that she was not licensed or qualified to provide such services.
The investigation began on March 20 after several victims reported similar experiences. One woman told deputies she met Farfan at the Palm Beach County courthouse while seeking help for her husband, who had been arrested. According to the report, Farfan claimed she worked with the court and immigration attorneys and could help secure his release.
The victim later paid Farfan $700 in cash, but authorities say no services were ever delivered.
In another case, a victim reported paying Farfan thousands of dollars over time for services such as a work visa, residency processing, and legal representation. Investigators say those services were never performed, bringing the total reported losses to more than $8,700.
The case gained wider attention after CBS12 News reporter Carlos Mahecha began investigating the allegations, following a tip linked to the Guatemalan consulate. After coverage aired on social media, Farfan reportedly contacted the reporter and admitted to taking money from at least one victim, promising repayment.
During a recorded interview conducted outside the West Palm Beach Police Department, Farfan appeared to acknowledge wrongdoing. She expressed a desire to repay the victims and admitted she had made mistakes.
Detectives later cited video recordings and electronic communications as part of the evidence supporting the charges.
Following media coverage, additional individuals came forward claiming they were also victimized, prompting authorities to expand the investigation. Officials believe there may be more victims who have yet to report their experiences.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone who may have interacted with Farfan to contact authorities. They also reminded the public to seek legal or immigration assistance only from licensed attorneys or verified organizations.
