Chicago Ring Busted for Staging Robberies to Secure Immigration Visas

Six men orchestrated fake armed robberies at local businesses to help victims qualify for U Visas, federal authorities report.

The scheme involved staging at least 16 robberies across Chicago and surrounding areas from December 2022 to January 2024.
Ringleaders Parth Nayi and Kewon Young allegedly directed the operations, including violent incidents to make the crimes appear real.
Victims paid thousands of dollars to be part of the staged crimes to apply for U Visas, which provide temporary legal status to crime victims.
One staged robbery turned violent, critically injuring a store clerk who was shot but survived.
All six individuals have been charged with conspiracy to commit visa fraud, with additional charges for making false statements in visa applications.