US Border Officials Arrest Irish Couple Wanted in UK Fraud Case

Border authorities in the United States have detained an Irish couple sought by UK law enforcement over a €3.5 million fraud scheme. The duo, reportedly linked to the “Travelling Conmen Fraud Group,” are now in custody pending a court hearing.

The couple faces 19 counts of money laundering in the UK, with British authorities seeking their extradition for defrauding multiple victims of over £3 million. Their arrests were executed by Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in New York City on July 18.

Kenneth Genalo, Director of ERO New York City Field Office, praised the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement agencies: “This case highlights our ability to coordinate with partners to apprehend international criminals swiftly.”

The male suspect legally entered the US on February 15, 2023, but allegedly breached his visa conditions. He was first arrested in New Jersey in May 2023 for hindering police and later charged with battery by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department in August 2023. His wife arrived in the US shortly after that and was arrested on July 17, 2024, in Kingston, New York, for possession of stolen property.

Both individuals are now in custody and awaiting further legal proceedings. The Executive Office for Immigration Review, part of the US Department of Justice, will oversee their removal proceedings, separate from the Department of Homeland Security. Immigration judges will decide their cases based on available evidence.

This case follows a pattern of heightened scrutiny of Irish nationals with criminal connections. Recently, law enforcement arrested two individuals in Florida linked to the Irish Traveller Conmen Fraud Group. Reports indicate that one of these men had travelled from Illinois to Miami, carrying $60,000 intended to smuggle associates from The Bahamas.

US authorities continue to target criminal networks involved in such international fraud and smuggling operations.