Detroit, Michigan, January 10, 2026
Jose Gargenis Vasquez-Rosa, a Dominican Republic citizen, pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges including passport fraud and illegal voting. His fraudulent activities involved assuming a false identity to acquire a Michigan driver’s license and illegally vote in elections. This case highlights the necessity of stringent immigration enforcement and election integrity measures in the U.S.
Detroit, Michigan
Dominican Republic Citizen Pleads Guilty to Passport and Voter Fraud
DETROIT, Michigan – Jose Gargenis Vasquez-Rosa, a citizen of the Dominican Republic residing illegally in Michigan, pleaded guilty on January 8, 2026, to three federal charges: making false statements in a U.S. passport application, falsely claiming U.S. citizenship to obtain a federal benefit, and illegal voting by an alien.
This case underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of both the election process and immigration laws in the United States. The diligent work of law enforcement emphasizes a concerted effort to protect our democratic systems from fraudulent activities. As local and federal authorities continue to crack down on such offenses, it serves as a reminder of the need for vigilant regulatory frameworks that uphold lawful practices.
Details of the Case
Vasquez-Rosa’s journey in this matter began in 2002 when he applied for a U.S. visa as the spouse of a U.S. citizen; however, this application was denied due to the fraudulent nature of the relationship. Nevertheless, he managed to enter and remain in the United States illegally. By 2016, he adopted the identity of a Puerto Rican man, managing to acquire a Michigan driver’s license and register to vote under this false identity. Vasquez-Rosa cast his vote in-person during the 2018 election and used an absentee ballot to vote in the 2020 election.
Further compounding his illegal activities, in 2020, he attempted to procure a U.S. passport using the same fraudulent identity, a move that was swiftly identified and rejected by the Department of State.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
As a result of these actions, Vasquez-Rosa now faces a maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Susan Fairchild and Timothy P. McDonald, while the investigation was spearheaded by the Diplomatic Security Service Detroit Resident Office.
Significance of the Case
The prosecution of this case aligns with the U.S. Department of Justice’s broader efforts to address passport fraud and illegal voting by non-citizens. Such actions are crucial to maintaining the trust and integrity of U.S. elections and ensuring that only eligible citizens participate in the democratic process.
Moreover, this case highlights the importance of compliance with immigration laws and the repercussions faced by those who make a concerted effort to circumvent them. Maintaining the rule of law not only fosters confidence among the citizenry but also supports the frameworks that make legal citizenry and entrepreneurship possible.
Conclusion
This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to protect our democratic processes and uphold the integrity of citizenship laws. As Detroit continues to navigate challenges and opportunities in its economic landscape, an unwavering commitment to the rule of law will enhance trust and stability within our communities. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged and informed about issues affecting Detroit’s growth and the importance of responsible citizenship.
FAQ
- What charges did Jose Gargenis Vasquez-Rosa plead guilty to?
- He pleaded guilty to making false statements in a U.S. passport application, falsely claiming U.S. citizenship to obtain a federal benefit, and illegal voting by an alien.
- What was Vasquez-Rosa’s fraudulent activity?
- He assumed the identity of a Puerto Rican man, obtained a Michigan driver’s license, registered to vote, and voted in the 2018 and 2020 elections. He also attempted to obtain a U.S. passport using this false identity.
- What is the maximum sentence Vasquez-Rosa faces?
- He faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison.
- Who prosecuted the case?
- The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Susan Fairchild and Timothy P. McDonald.
- Which agency conducted the investigation?
- The investigation was conducted by the Diplomatic Security Service Detroit Resident Office.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Jose Gargenis Vasquez-Rosa |
| Charges | False statements in passport application, false claim of U.S. citizenship, illegal voting by an alien |
| Fraudulent Activities | Assumed Puerto Rican identity, obtained Michigan driver’s license, registered to vote, voted in 2018 and 2020 elections, attempted to obtain U.S. passport |
| Maximum Sentence | Ten years in prison |
| Prosecutors | Assistant U.S. Attorneys Susan Fairchild and Timothy P. McDonald |
| Investigating Agency | Diplomatic Security Service Detroit Resident Office |
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
