Nestor Peguero/Dominican Republic/Identity Theft

ICE New Orleans arrested Nestor Peguero, a citizen of the Dominican Republic and an illegal alien residing in the United States, during targeted operations focused on apprehending individuals involved in financial crimes and identity theft schemes that threaten public trust and financial security. Peguero, forty-one, was taken into custody following extensive investigative work by ICE agents, who traced his involvement in fraudulent activities tied to the theft and misuse of personal information belonging to innocent victims.

Peguero’s criminal history includes a conviction for aggravated identity theft, a serious federal offense that involves unlawfully using someone else’s personal identifying information to commit fraud or other crimes. Court documents reveal that Peguero obtained and utilized victims’ names, Social Security numbers, and financial details to open bank accounts, apply for credit, and conduct transactions meant to defraud financial institutions and individuals alike. His activities resulted in significant financial losses and left victims dealing with the lingering effects of credit damage and identity restoration.

Identity theft is a growing problem in the United States, with criminals exploiting stolen information to finance lavish lifestyles, fund further criminal enterprises, or evade detection. Cases like Peguero’s underscore the importance of aggressive enforcement actions to safeguard personal data and protect communities from the cascading harm caused by financial crimes. Victims often spend years untangling the consequences, facing rejected loans, tarnished reputations, and severe emotional distress.

At the time of his arrest, Peguero was found to have no lawful status permitting him to remain in the country and had not pursued legal avenues for relief. ICE officers conducted his apprehension without incident and placed him into removal proceedings. He will remain in ICE custody as his case progresses, with his conviction for aggravated identity theft weighing heavily on the outcome of his immigration status.