In a move to protect vulnerable immigrants from exploitation, New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a comprehensive agreement that puts an end to the fraudulent practices of an immigrant assistance service provider who deceived and threatened immigrants seeking help.
The investigation
The provider in question, Jacquelin Mercado, operating in Yonkers, has been found guilty of fraudulent activities, including posing as a licensed attorney, offering illegal legal advice, and intimidating clients. The Office of the Attorney General’s investigation unearthed a pattern of deception that lasted from June 2020 to July 2022.
This investigation revealed that Mercado unlawfully posed as an attorney licensed in the United States, despite lacking the necessary credentials. She utilized the title “attorney at law” to falsely establish her legitimacy while offering illegal legal advice to unsuspecting immigrants. Moreover, she used intimidation tactics, threatening to report clients to immigration authorities, and undermining their pursuit of lawful immigration status.
As part of the agreement, Mercado is required to pay restitution amounting to almost $10,000 to four customers across Westchester and New York City. Additionally, she must cease all false advertising of her services and fully comply with New York’s immigrant protection laws. The deal mandates explicit statements in her advertisements that she is not a licensed attorney and cannot provide legal advice.
Attorney General James emphasized the need to protect vulnerable immigrants navigating the complex immigration system.
Every New Yorker, especially our most vulnerable, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and should be confident that the services they pay for are legitimate.
She encouraged individuals who believe they’ve been exploited to come forward, ensuring that bad actors and scammers face appropriate consequences.
Praise from officials
New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins applauded the Attorney General’s efforts in curbing fraudulent practices targeting immigrants. She noted the importance of maintaining a high standard for those providing assistance to immigrants who are often grappling with language barriers and unfamiliar legal systems.
State Senator Shelley Mayer echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the commitment to protect vulnerable populations is paramount. The agreement, Mayer stated, ensures restitution, an end to false advertising, and compliance with the law.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer emphasized the importance of enforcing immigrant protection laws, highlighting that the safety and well-being of all immigrants are of paramount importance.
Assistant Attorney General in Charge of the Westchester Regional Office Andy Aujla, Assistant Attorney General Fellow Yomidalys Güichardo, Investigator Peter Schottenfeld, and Supervising Investigator Michael Christian all participated in this effort.
