SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers arrested Sunday a Dominican Republic national referred by the Puerto Rico Police Department (PRPD) attempting to board a flight using a fraudulent Puerto Rico Driver’s license, passing through the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport with final destination to Newark, New Jersey.
On June 9, Transportation Security Administration (TSA Officers referred to PRPD Officers an individual who claimed to be a U.S. Citizen by the name of Jose Manuel Ayala-Reyes, presenting a Puerto Rico Driver’s License, that appeared altered. PRPD contacted CBP Officers for assistance.
CBP Officers referred the passenger to further examination. CBP Officers were able to confirm his identity as Maximiliano Campusano-Sano, through cooperation from the Dominican Republic’s official “Cedula” authorities.
Mr. Campusano-Sano could not furnish immigration document as proof if his legal immigration status in the United States. Moreover, Border Patrol agents apprehended Mr Campusano-Sano in November 2017.
Mr. Campusano-Sano was arrested June 9, and brought before U.S. Magistrate Judge Marcos Lopez June 10 for an initial appearance, for violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a)(2), for reentry after a prior removal.
“The use of fraudulent documents by individuals attempting to elude authorities is a serious matter for law enforcement collaboration,” indicated Edwin Cruz, San Juan Area Port Director. “Our capacity to work together and share information can help detect persons illegally present in the country violating our laws.”
Assistant US Attorney Nicholas Cannon is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Mr Campusano-Sano faces imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or a fine, or both.
All defendants are innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.
CBP’s mission is to facilitate travel while maintaining the highest standards of security for those who live here and for those who come to visit.