DOJ charges four noncitizens in connection with illegally voting in a federal election
The Justice Department made a significant announcement on Friday, revealing charges against four noncitizens in New Jersey for illegally voting in federal elections and providing false information while applying for US citizenship. The individuals charged include David Neewilly, a 73-year-old Liberian national from Atlantic County; Jacenth Beadle Exum, a 70-year-old Jamaican national from Bergen County; Idan Choresh, a 43-year-old Israeli national from Monmouth County; and Abhinandan Vig, a 33-year-old Indian national also from Monmouth County.
According to the complaints filed by the New Jersey US Attorney’s Office, each of the defendants participated in federal elections by falsely claiming US citizenship on voter registration forms. The charges were brought forth after an investigation conducted by the District of New Jersey’s Election Integrity Task Force.
Robert Frazer, the US Attorney for New Jersey, emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the election system and holding accountable those who attempt to circumvent voting laws and the naturalization process. The defendants allegedly cast ballots in various federal elections, such as the 2020 presidential election and the 2022 midterm election, before submitting naturalization paperwork in an effort to become US citizens.
The Department of Justice accuses the defendants of providing false information under oath, claiming they had never registered or voted in any federal elections, which prosecutors argue was untrue. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche reiterated the administration’s stance on not tolerating noncitizens who attempt to vote in US elections when they are not eligible to do so.
The charges against the defendants vary, with potential maximum sentences ranging from 10 to 16 years in prison. Neewilly faces charges of voting by an alien in a federal election and making false statements in relation to naturalization, while Choresh is charged with similar offenses along with procurement of citizenship or naturalization unlawfully. Vig and Beadle Exum also face severe charges related to false statements in relation to naturalization.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the FBI’s commitment to securing elections from criminal activities, stating that noncitizens voting is a federal crime that will not be tolerated. The FBI continues to work diligently with interagency partners to ensure that individuals engaging in such conduct will face consequences for their actions.
