ICE Cracks Down on Marriage Fraud Ring with Four Indictments

Federal Authorities Dismantle Nationwide Scam

A major operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has exposed and disrupted a sophisticated marriage fraud scheme, resulting in the indictment of four individuals. The investigation uncovered a network orchestrating sham marriages to secure immigration benefits for foreign nationals. This coordinated effort involved multiple federal agencies, including the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Department of State Diplomatic Security Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Maryland, showcasing a commitment to upholding the integrity of the immigration system.

The four individuals charged—Ella Zuran, 65, Tatiana Sigal, 74, and Alexandra Tkach, 41, all from New York City, along with Shawnta Hopper, 33, from Sicklerville, New Jersey—face allegations of conspiracy to commit visa and marriage fraud. Authorities arrested Zuran, Sigal, and Tkach in March, with Hopper’s arrest details undisclosed. On April 24, ICE administratively arrested 10 additional individuals linked to the scheme, and their immigration benefits have been revoked.

How the Fraudulent Scheme Operated

The indicted individuals allegedly arranged fake marriages between U.S. citizens and foreign nationals seeking permanent residency. According to investigators, Zuran, Sigal, and Tkach were paid thousands of dollars to coordinate these sham weddings, which included preparing false immigration forms and fake health status attestations. Hopper played a key role by recruiting U.S. citizens, primarily women in Baltimore and other areas, offering them financial incentives to participate in the fraudulent marriages.

The scheme was designed to deceive immigration officials into granting benefits to non-citizens who were not eligible. U.S. citizens admitted to receiving payments for their involvement, often meeting their supposed spouses only briefly before obtaining marriage licenses. Some marriages are made in heaven. Some are just made up, said USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser, highlighting the deceptive nature of the operation.

Impact on the Immigration System

Marriage fraud undermines the legal immigration process, diverting resources and eroding public trust. The defendants’ greed led them to concoct an illegal-marriage scheme that compromises the integrity of our immigration system, stated U.S. Attorney Kelly Hayes. The indictments send a clear message that federal authorities will pursue those who exploit immigration laws for personal gain.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy emphasized the broader implications: These arrests mark a critical milestone in our broader effort to dismantle a criminal network that has sought to undermine our nation’s immigration laws. The operation’s success reflects the dedication of federal agents to protect the lawful immigration process.

Legal Consequences and Ongoing Efforts

If convicted, the four defendants face up to five years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine their sentences based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. Trial dates have not yet been scheduled, and the individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The investigation, supported by the HSI Maryland Document and Benefit Fraud/El Dorado Task Force, began identifying suspicious marriages in 2022. USCIS officers conducted interviews that confirmed the fraudulent nature of the arrangements, leading to the revocation of immigration benefits for those involved. The Diplomatic Security Service is a key partner in the United States’ work to reduce illegal immigration, said Special Agent in Charge David Richeson, underscoring the collaborative effort.

President Trump’s Immigration Priorities

This operation aligns with President Donald Trump’s strong stance on immigration enforcement. Since taking office on January 20, 2025, the administration has prioritized cracking down on illegal immigration. Executive orders issued in January call for identifying non-compliant cities and states, enhancing protections for law enforcement, and ensuring stricter immigration policies. Under Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership at the Department of Homeland Security, fraudsters are walking out in handcuffs, as Tragesser noted, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to rooting out immigration fraud.

The dismantling of this marriage fraud ring is a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated federal efforts. As ICE and its partners continue to target criminal networks, the focus remains on safeguarding the nation’s immigration system for those who follow the legal process.