An Indian national residing in New York has pleaded guilty in a Boston federal court to participating in a visa fraud conspiracy. Balwinder Singh, 41, admitted to one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud and is scheduled for sentencing on September 11, 2025. This case involves staged armed robberies designed to facilitate fraudulent U Visa applications.
The scheme was orchestrated by Singh's co-conspirator, Rambhai Patel, who began setting up these fake robberies in March 2023. The staged incidents occurred at convenience stores and fast-food restaurants across the United States, including five locations in Massachusetts. The purpose was to enable store clerks to claim they were victims of violent crimes when applying for U nonimmigrant status. This type of visa is intended for victims of certain crimes who have been helpful to law enforcement.
During these staged events, a "robber" would threaten clerks or owners with an apparent firearm and take cash from the register while being recorded on surveillance video. Singh served as the getaway driver for several of these incidents. Clerks or owners delayed calling the police until after the "robber" had fled. Participants paid Patel significant sums—one victim reportedly paid $20,000—to be involved in this scheme.
At least two individuals submitted U Visa applications based on their involvement as purported victims in these staged robberies.
Patel also pleaded guilty on May 20, 2025, with sentencing set for August 20, 2025.
The charge carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Deportation is possible following any imposed sentence.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka from the FBI announced the plea deal. Assistance came from various law enforcement agencies across multiple states including New York and Washington.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna J. Nuzum and Jessica L. Soto are handling prosecution duties for this case.
