By Tom Weber & Matt Sepic, KWMU
St. Louis, MO – A federal grand jury is accusing three Mexican citizens of making fake ID's and other documents. They were arrested this week in Maryland Heights as part of an investigation by immigration officials.
Agent James Ward says the three are illegal aliens and were making fake Social Security Cards, residence cards, and drivers' licenses. "We have information that these types of organizations exist here and it's our job to make sure they get investigated," Ward said.
"So once we got that information we pursued it actively."
Authorities say 15 others illegals were also arrested. They're expected to be deported.
U.S. Attorney Catherine Hanaway says the men used a computer and laminating machine, items that were confiscated in the raid.
Authorities say they have no reason to believe anyone else was involved with the fake ID ring.
Those charged are Ivan Anguilo-Lopez, 19, Freddy Avila-Casas, 24, and Candido Cruz, 26.