Colombian woman charged with identity theft, fraudulent voting, stealing benefits
The media has come under fire for its coverage of deportations, with critics calling the narrative “pointless” and misleading. Seattle radio host Jason Rantz and content creator Natalie Beisner recently appeared on ‘Fox News @ Night’ to discuss the issue, comparing photos of President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden, as well as addressing the media’s portrayal of deportations and violent protests on the University of Washington’s campus.
In a shocking case of identity theft, a Colombian woman living illegally in the United States was found to have lived under a stolen identity for over 20 years. Lina Maria Orovio-Hernandez, 59, reportedly received more than $400,000 in stolen federal benefits and illegally voted in the 2024 presidential election. She also obtained welfare benefits, a REAL ID, and eight other state IDs using the stolen identity.
Orovio-Hernandez allegedly submitted a fraudulent voter registration in January 2023 and cast a ballot in the presidential election later that year. Surveillance footage from a bank captured her wearing an “I voted” sticker on Election Day, further implicating her in the illegal voting scheme.
The Justice Department has charged Orovio-Hernandez with multiple offenses, including false representation of a Social Security number, making a false statement in a passport application, aggravated identity theft, receiving stolen government money, fraudulent voter registration, and fraudulent voting. She has been in federal custody since February, when she was initially charged with identity theft.
Authorities revealed that Orovio-Hernandez improperly received $400,000 in federal benefits, including rental assistance, Social Security disability benefits, and SNAP benefits. U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley condemned her actions, stating that she had built an entire life on a stolen identity and illegally collected government benefits meant for American citizens in need.
The case highlights the importance of safeguarding personal information and the consequences of identity theft. Amy Connelly, the special agent in charge for the Social Security Administration, emphasized that stealing someone’s identity to fraudulently obtain benefits is not only theft but also an abuse of a system intended to help those truly in need.
The story of Lina Maria Orovio-Hernandez serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of identity theft and the importance of upholding the integrity of government programs. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of immigration enforcement and the need for stronger safeguards against fraudulent voting.
