An immigration officer of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is facing charges after allegedly attempting to solicit bribes. Amara Dukuly, 43, of Brookhaven, Pennsylvania, was arrested and charged with bribery of a public officer. The criminal complaint accuses Dukuly of collecting payments from individuals in exchange for promises to accelerate changes to their immigration status, such as acquiring a green card, work authorization paperwork, or visas. According to a statement issued by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, these claims date from about 2015 to the present.
In what looks to be a classic abuse of power, Dukuly is accused of using his position at USCIS to extract personal advantages that he was not permitted to do. The complaint alleges that he lacked the authority to provide the services he advertised. Nonetheless, Dukuly allegedly attempted to corruptly receive and accept bribes, which he subsequently purportedly exploited for his personal gain. This material is based on the criminal complaint, which was released on the official website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
The Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are currently investigating Dukuly’s activities. Anita Eve, an assistant US attorney, is prosecuting the case. The authorities are requesting anyone with relevant information on government officials seeking bribes to contact HSI Philadelphia at 1-866-347-2423, pick prompt number two, and specify the investigation.
It is important to note that Dukuly’s charges are only accusations at this time. He, like all accused, is deemed innocent until proven guilty in court. As the case progresses, new details may emerge, providing additional context to these severe charges. The public is reminded to refrain from passing prejudicial judgments and to wait for the result of legal proceedings. Updates will be provided as the situation unfolds, and anybody interested in the case is encouraged to stay informed through credible sources.