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Immigration authorities have arrested a Minnesota Department of Corrections officer on allegations of immigration fraud after a multi-year investigation revealed a pattern of deception involving false claims of U.S. citizenship.
Morris Brown, 45, was taken into custody last month in Minneapolis by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Federal officials describe Brown as an undocumented immigrant from Liberia who entered the United States in 2014 on a non-immigrant student visa that was terminated the following year.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Brown’s case involves multiple alleged violations of immigration law that span nearly a decade, beginning shortly after his arrival in the country.
Despite his lack of legal status, officials say Brown joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in 2014 but went AWOL in 2015. After being apprehended, he was eventually discharged from military service under other-than-honorable conditions in 2022, according to the federal agency.
The investigation intensified in 2020 when Brown applied for permanent resident status—commonly known as a green card—under the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness program. USCIS denied this application after discovering misrepresentations in his filing, including what they characterized as false claims of U.S. citizenship.
Federal authorities also allege Brown attempted to naturalize as a U.S. citizen based on his military service, despite his dishonorable discharge and unauthorized immigration status.
The case emerged as part of Operation Twin Shield, a targeted USCIS enforcement campaign designed to identify potential citizenship and immigration fraud. During their review of Brown’s citizenship application, investigators reported finding evidence of marriage fraud and multiple instances where he allegedly falsely claimed U.S. citizenship on official documents.
Perhaps most concerning to state officials is the revelation that Brown secured employment as a correctional officer with the Minnesota Department of Corrections by claiming to be a U.S. citizen during the hiring process. The position typically requires citizenship as a condition of employment due to the security-sensitive nature of correctional work.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in employment verification systems and raises questions about vetting procedures within state agencies. The Minnesota Department of Corrections has not yet issued a public statement regarding Brown’s employment status or their hiring protocols.
Immigration from Liberia has a complex history in American immigration policy. The Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness program, under which Brown applied for permanent residence, was established to provide a path to legal status for Liberians who fled civil war and unrest in their home country. The program represents one of several temporary humanitarian protections that have been extended to Liberians over decades.
According to federal officials, Brown now faces removal proceedings that could result in deportation to Liberia. Additionally, he may face criminal prosecution for the alleged immigration violations, particularly the false claims of citizenship, which constitute a serious offense under U.S. immigration law.
Legal experts note that falsely claiming U.S. citizenship carries significant consequences beyond deportation, including permanent inadmissibility to the United States in the future.
Federal authorities have not disclosed whether Brown has legal representation or if he has entered any plea regarding the allegations. The case remains under investigation as authorities determine the full extent of the alleged immigration violations.
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10 Comments
This case raises questions about how someone with an unclear immigration status was able to join the military and then work as a correctional officer. More transparency around background checks would be helpful.
Exactly. Tightening up those screening processes could prevent similar situations from occurring in the future and maintain public trust in government institutions.
It’s troubling to see someone abuse their position and violate immigration laws, especially in a sensitive role like a correctional officer. Strict enforcement is needed, but with compassion for individual circumstances.
Well said. Upholding the law is important, but we must also consider the nuances of each case and ensure a fair process. A balanced approach is key.
This case highlights the importance of verifying immigration status and background checks, especially for those in positions of authority. It’s concerning to see such a long pattern of deception by this correctional officer.
Agreed. Maintaining the integrity of government agencies and upholding the rule of law is critical. Hopefully this serves as a wake-up call for stronger vetting procedures.
This case highlights the complexities of immigration enforcement and the need for comprehensive reform. While fraud is unacceptable, a humane and pragmatic solution is required to address the root issues.
I agree that a more holistic approach is needed. Simply cracking down on individuals may not be the most effective solution in the long run.
While immigration fraud is a serious offense, I hope the officer receives a fair trial and due process. Everyone deserves a chance to explain their circumstances, even if they made mistakes in the past.
That’s a fair perspective. Balanced justice is important, but the allegations, if true, are still deeply concerning for someone in a position of authority.