A staff member for Senator Tammy Duckworth has been terminated following accusations of impersonating an attorney to interfere with federal immigration proceedings. The individual allegedly attempted to secure the release of an individual previously deported four times.
The incident unfolded at an ICE facility in East St. Louis, Illinois, where the staffer, identified as Edward York, misrepresented himself as legal counsel for Jose Ismeal Ayuzo Sandoval. Sandoval has a prior DUI conviction and a history of repeated deportations.
York allegedly falsified a Department of Homeland Security form to gain access to the facility on October 29th. He then secured Sandoval’s signature on a G-28 form, a document granting power of attorney to a legal representative.
Further complicating the situation, York reportedly attempted to submit a G-28 form *without* Sandoval’s signature. This action raised immediate red flags with ICE officials.
Investigations revealed a potentially coordinated effort with a law firm, Suarez Law Office in Collinsville, Illinois. A G-28 form was filed electronically by the firm days later, lacking Sandoval’s signature despite York already possessing a signed version.
The Department of Homeland Security is now demanding answers, suspecting York collaborated with the law firm to conceal his deception. The agency believes this was a deliberate attempt to circumvent proper legal channels.
Senator Duckworth, upon learning of the allegations, stated she and her leadership team were unaware of the staffer’s actions. She confirmed the immediate termination of York’s employment, effective November 17th.
Beyond termination, calls are mounting for criminal charges to be filed against York for making false statements to federal officers. The implications of his actions extend beyond a single case, potentially undermining the integrity of the immigration process.
