Miami pastor, associate accused of immigration scam at church
A Miami pastor and his alleged accomplice are facing felony charges after authorities say they orchestrated an illegal immigration scheme from within a local church, defrauding more than a dozen people.
According to Breitbart, officials say the pair posed as providers of legal immigration help, collecting over $21,000 from at least 16 individuals without delivering any actual services.
On a recent Thursday, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Nelson David Ochoa-Vasquez, 46, and Ismer Gonzalez, 44, for their alleged roles in the fraud. Both men were charged with organized fraud and grand theft. Gonzalez is also facing an additional charge for the unauthorized practice of law.
Church Used As Front For Fraud Operation
Ochoa-Vasquez is the pastor of La Iglesia de Dios Jireh, a Spanish-speaking congregation in Miami. According to investigators, he used his trusted role in the church community to connect individuals seeking immigration guidance with Gonzalez.
Authorities allege that Gonzalez claimed to be an immigration attorney, although he lacked the credentials or license to practice law. He is accused of falsely promising legal assistance with work permits, driver's licenses, and other immigration-related matters.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office reported that victims paid approximately $21,000 for these illegitimate legal services. However, according to officials, none of the promised outcomes were delivered.
Victims Targeted Over Several Months
The fraudulent operation is believed to have occurred between April 2024 and January 2025. Over that period, investigators say at least 16 people were scammed by the pair.
Many of those affected are described as vulnerable individuals seeking legal support for immigration issues. Officials said Ochoa-Vasquez "used his position to introduce unsuspecting victims," directing them to Gonzalez.
Further complicating matters, Gonzalez reportedly has two outstanding warrants in North Carolina related to similar illegal activities involving immigration fraud.
Law Enforcement Zeroes In On Defendants
Both men are currently being held without bond as they await a Nebbia hearing. This type of hearing ensures that any future bail posted does not come from illegal earnings.
In an unexpected twist, Ochoa-Vasquez himself is currently on an immigration hold. This could potentially affect his ability to post bail or remain in the country legally as proceedings move forward.
Authorities believe more victims may come forward as news of the arrests spreads. Given the church’s communal function, they expect other individuals may have been unknowingly ensnared by the alleged scheme.
Charges Highlight Serious Allegations
The charges filed against both men—organized fraud and grand theft—are considered second-degree felonies under Florida law. These offenses carry serious penalties, including potential prison time if convicted.
In addition, Gonzalez’s charge of practicing law without a license underlines the severity of the alleged misconduct. Practicing law without appropriate credentials is a criminal offense, especially when vulnerable populations are targeted.
While the investigation remains ongoing, authorities urge anyone who believes they may have been a victim to come forward and file a report.
Community Left With Lingering Questions
News of the arrests has left some in the Miami faith community stunned, given the trusted position held by Ochoa-Vasquez. His role as a pastor at La Iglesia de Dios Jireh appeared, for some, to lend credibility to the immigration services offered through Gonzalez.
The Sheriff’s Office has not released the names of the victims, citing privacy and the sensitivity of their legal situations. However, they confirmed that additional charges are possible as the investigation progresses.
Officials are continuing to examine financial records and church connections to determine whether others were involved or if this pattern has extended beyond Southeast Florida.
