Carlos Esteves-Salinas, a Marine Inspector Senior Verifying Officer with the United States Coast Guard Sector San Juan, was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 30 for multiple counts including unlawful activities of officers and employees in claims against the government, destruction or falsification of records in federal investigations, and aggravated identity theft, according to an April 16 announcement from W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.
The case is significant as it underscores concerns about public trust and accountability among those serving in positions of authority. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico supports public safety by handling federal crimes including civil rights violations according to the official website.
Esteves-Salinas was arrested on April 14 after allegations that he acted unlawfully as an agent for individuals seeking merchant mariner credentials. Prosecutors say he accepted personal payments from applicants to help them obtain, complete, and submit applications—actions conducted outside his Coast Guard employment and without authorization. Court documents state that on at least twelve occasions he used counterfeit physician stamps and forged signatures to complete required medical certificates for clients seeking these credentials.
“These charges highlight a grave disregard for the duties and standards expected of those in positions of authority,” said United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow. “We remain dedicated to enforcing the law and maintaining accountability without exception.”
If convicted, Esteves-Salinas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison; sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge considering U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office enforces federal laws through criminal prosecutions and civil litigation according to its official website, serving all parts of Puerto Rico in law enforcement efforts according to its official website. The office also offers mechanisms for reporting crimes or frauds according to its official website while addressing offenses such as public corruption or drug trafficking according to its official website. Muldrow has held the position as United States Attorney for this district according to its official website.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody A. McKinney from the U.S. Coast Guard is prosecuting this case. Officials remind that an indictment is only an allegation; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
