Florin-Cornel Matei/Romania/Identity Theft, Bank Fraud

Florin-Cornel Matei, 29, a citizen of Romania unlawfully present in the United States, was arrested by ICE Chicago officers following his release from federal prison. Matei initially entered the U.S. illegally in 2012 and has since amassed a significant criminal history tied to sophisticated financial crimes, underscoring his involvement in offenses that impact individuals and financial institutions alike.

In 2024, Matei was convicted of identity theft and conspiracy to commit bank fraud—two serious white-collar crimes with broad implications. Identity theft involves the illegal acquisition and use of personal information, often resulting in financial ruin or significant hardship for victims. Conspiracy to commit bank fraud reflects coordination with others to execute schemes targeting financial systems, highlighting a calculated disregard for U.S. law and public trust.

Prior to his arrest, Matei served a 33-month sentence in federal prison for his role in these criminal activities. His conviction stemmed from his involvement in a scheme that defrauded banks and compromised the identities of numerous individuals, causing substantial financial losses and triggering extensive investigations by federal authorities.

Given the gravity of his crimes and his illegal presence in the United States, ICE swiftly took Matei into custody upon his release from federal incarceration. He now remains detained pending removal proceedings before an immigration judge, reflecting ICE’s focus on apprehending individuals whose criminal actions pose significant financial and societal harm.