Man Charged with Naturalization Fraud; Three Others Face Denaturalization
Update Explained
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina has announced criminal and civil actions related to fraudulent naturalization. Sha Bahadur Ghaley, a naturalized citizen originally from Bhutan, has been indicted for naturalization fraud. Allegations suggest Ghaley committed sexual crimes against a child but failed to disclose these actions during his naturalization application process. He was granted U.S. citizenship in July 2018 but is now facing charges that carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Separately, civil denaturalization actions have been filed against three other individuals — Benjamin Hernandez, Han Xiong Chen, and Kevin Yun-Sang Kim — for allegedly obtaining citizenship through fraudulent means. These complaints, filed between June and August, cite various fraudulent actions such as illegal entry, misrepresentation of identity, and concealment of significant facts during the naturalization process. The charges and claims mentioned have not yet been proven as they are currently allegations.
What changed
A criminal indictment for naturalization fraud was announced against Sha Bahadur Ghaley, and civil denaturalization complaints were filed against three additional individuals.
Why it matters
Individuals who have obtained U.S. citizenship through fraudulent means face the risk of criminal charges, potential revocation of their citizenship, and further legal consequences.
Who is affected
- Sha Bahadur Ghaley
- Benjamin Hernandez
- Han Xiong Chen
- Kevin Yun-Sang Kim
Key details
- Sha Bahadur Ghaley is accused of failing to disclose past criminal conduct during the naturalization process.
- Benjamin Hernandez allegedly used a false identity and had an outstanding order of removal when he obtained citizenship.
- Han Xiong Chen allegedly used fraudulent documents and reentered the U.S. illegally before obtaining citizenship.
- Kevin Yun-Sang Kim allegedly concealed a deportation order during his naturalization process.
Important notes
The charges and allegations mentioned in the indictments and complaints have not yet been proven in court.