Operation Bargain Brides [Federal Agents Take Down Marriage Fraud Operation]

Federal agents disrupted a multi-state marriage fraud operation, "Operation Bargain Brides," apprehending 10 foreign nationals in Baltimore for attempting to fraudulently obtain marriage licenses. Four U.S. citizen ringleaders, charged last month, earned up to $40 million by charging foreigners $40,000 for fake marriages. The scheme involved recruiting and coaching Americans for sham relationships to deceive USCIS and gain illegal immigration benefits. Video evidence shows suspects leaving in handcuffs, sending a clear message: "marriage fraud will not be tolerated." This extensive investigation highlights the threat to the immigration system's integrity, resource strain, and erosion of public trust caused by such schemes.