Detectives with the local sheriff’s Organized Crimes Bureau took the two men into custody last Thursday following months of investigation. The duo is accused of operating what law enforcement described in a press statement as an “organized scheme to defraud” between April 2024 and January 2025.

Authorities Say Victims Were Lured With False Legal Help

The investigation centers around La Iglesia de Dios Jireh, where Ochoa-Vasquez, 46, served as the pastor. Officials allege that he used his trusted role within the congregation to approach migrant members of the community who were seeking legal status in the United States.

According to the sheriff’s office, Ochoa-Vasquez referred several of these individuals to 45-year-old Gonzalez, instructing them to contact him under the belief that they would receive legitimate immigration legal services. The claim, authorities say, was entirely false.

Investigators found that Gonzalez was not licensed to practice law in Florida, despite presenting himself as an immigration attorney. He allegedly advised victims on their legal matters and collected fees despite lacking the qualifications to do so.

Payments Traced to Cash and Shell Company

Victims were reportedly instructed to send money to a company called Brothers Multiservicio LLC, described by authorities as a shell business controlled by the suspects. Some were also told to hand over payments directly in cash to Ochoa-Vasquez.

Records show that approximately $21,000 was collected from at least 16 individuals during the eight months the scheme was active. Officials noted that none of the promised legal services were delivered to the victims.

Instead of assisting with immigration needs, authorities say the funds were diverted to personal use. The pair allegedly spent the stolen money on items from luxury fashion brands such as Gucci, Dior, and Louis Vuitton. They also used some of the funds for travel to regions including Europe and South America.

One Suspect Tied to Prior Fraud Cases

Further complicating the case is Gonzalez’s reported criminal background. According to law enforcement officials, he has two outstanding warrants in North Carolina that relate to previous fraud allegations involving similar conduct.

As for Ochoa-Vasquez, he is currently being held under an immigration detainer. The nature of his immigration status has not been disclosed publicly, but the detainer indicates federal concerns over his presence in the United States.

Both suspects are currently in custody and awaiting a Nebbia hearing. This type of hearing is used to ensure that any money used for bail does not come from illicit sources, such as the funds allegedly stolen in this case.

Multiple Felony Charges Filed Against Both Men

Ochoa-Vasquez faces two felony charges: organized fraud and second-degree grand theft. These charges stem from the alleged manipulation of his role in the church and the theft of thousands of dollars from hopeful immigrants.

Gonzalez faces the same two charges as his alleged accomplice, along with an additional count of practicing law without a license. That charge carries specific penalties in Florida and is considered a serious offense, especially when tied to fraudulent schemes.

This case underscores the risks faced by undocumented and vulnerable immigrants. By misusing positions of trust and offering false legal promises, authorities say the two men exploited people in difficult situations for personal gain.

Authorities Continue to Investigate Financial Trail

Officials indicate that the investigation is ongoing, with detectives continuing to track the movement of the funds connected to the fraudulent scheme. Further charges or arrests may follow as additional evidence is uncovered.

The sheriff's office encourages other potential victims to come forward if they interacted with either suspect during the period in question. Authorities emphasized the importance of ensuring all who were targeted receive support and justice.

As the legal process continues, both men remain in jail. Prosecutors are expected to argue against bail during the upcoming Nebbia hearing, citing the scope of the alleged fraud and possible flight risks.