Indian arrested in US: US Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that an Indian national, Swapnil Ramesh Tejale (34), was arrested and charged with possession of a ‘forged alien resident card’. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment and a fine of USD 2,50,000, according to a statement issued by the US Attorney’s Office, Western District of New York.
Assistant US Attorney Michael J Smith, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on July 10, 2025, the Niagara Falls Border Patrol Station received a request from the Niagara Falls Police Department to help identify three individuals that they had encountered during a traffic stop, the statement said on July 21.
Forged Social Security Card
Agents arrived at the scene and questioned the three individuals as to their citizenship. Tejale presented a Lawful Permanent Resident Card but voluntarily admitted that the card was fictitious. It was determined that Tejale was illegally present in the United States without any immigration documents that would allow him to remain in the country lawfully. After Tejale was taken into custody, agents located a Social Security Card in his name. Record checks verified that the Social Security Card was also fictitious.
The complaint was filed as a result of an investigation by the US Border Patrol Niagara Falls Station, under the supervision of Patrol Agent in Charge Brady Waikal, as per the statement.
What is a Resident Alien Card?
A Resident Alien Card, commonly referred to as a Green Card or Permanent Resident Card, is issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign nationals, granting them permanent residency in the United States. This card serves as proof of their legal status, allowing them to live and work in the country indefinitely. Although the card has an expiration date and requires periodic renewal, the holder’s status as a lawful permanent resident remains valid unless revoked or abandoned.
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What are the benefits of a Resident Alien Card?
– Permanent Residency: Live and work in the United States indefinitely
– Employment Opportunities: Access to a wider range of job opportunities, with the same labour protections as US citizens
– Travel Flexibility: Freely travel in and out of the United States
– Access to Social Services: Eligibility for government benefits, healthcare, and education
– Path to Citizenship: Opportunity to apply for US citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements
Does a Resident Alien Card expire?
– The Resident Alien Card contains personal information, including name, date of birth, photograph, and Alien Registration Number
– Cardholders must comply with US tax laws and maintain a valid immigration status
– The card is typically valid for 10 years and requires renewal to maintain permanent resident status.
(With inputs from agency)