A federal jury in Houston has convicted Tadeo Pedro-Torres, a 21-year-old citizen of Guatemala, for making false statements in an immigration case involving juveniles. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Pedro-Torres attempted to enter the United States near El Paso on October 26, 2024, claiming to be a 16-year-old unaccompanied minor. Based on this claim, he was placed in a facility managed by the Department of Health and Human Services that is responsible for caring for unaccompanied children who lack lawful immigration status and do not have a parent or legal guardian available in the country.
During the three-day trial, evidence showed that Pedro-Torres identified himself to law enforcement with a birthdate indicating he was born in November 2007. Further investigation determined his actual year of birth was 2003. While at the facility, Pedro-Torres received services and attended school alongside minors.
The defense argued that Pedro-Torres was confused and did not intentionally lie about his age. However, after less than one hour of deliberation, the jury found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake presided over the trial and scheduled sentencing for December 19. At sentencing, Pedro-Torres faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible maximum fine of $250,000. He will remain in custody until then.
The investigation was conducted by Immigration Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carrie Law and Celia Moyer are prosecuting the case.
"U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei said: 'A 21-year-old Guatemalan national has been convicted for making false statements in a juvenile immigration case.'"
