Immigrants are a huge part of our country. They now account for nearly 14% of the population in the United States. Immigrants offer both social and economic benefits to our country with diversity and a strong work ethic.
However, immigrants often get a bad rap. They are accused of taking advantage of the doms and benefits the United States has to offer. Immigration is also erroneously associated with the nation’s crime rate. These misconceptions exists because many people come to this country illegally, violating immigration laws. Plus, immigration often involves human trafficking, which is also a crime.
However, a lot of research has been done on the crime rates of immigrants in Texas. Research shows that illegal immigrants are 37% less likely to be convicted of a crime than native-born Americans. Also, legal immigrants are 57% less likely to be convicted of a crime than native-born Americans. Texas is the only state that sorts this data by immigration status.
Despite this, immigrants do get charged with certain crimes, and some more than others. This is often due to economic pressures and immigration-related crimes. Here is a look at the crimes that immigrants are likely to be charged with.
Immigration-Related Offenses
Many immigrants are charged with entering a country without proper authorization or overstaying a visa. They may use forged or fraudulent identification documents, such as Social Security numbers or green cards, often to obtain employment or avoid deportation. They may also work for an employer without the required legal work permits.
Crimes of Economic Necessity
These include forms of theft. Often driven by economic challenges, immigrants may be charged with shoplifting or other forms of petty theft. Employers may exploit undocumented immigrants, leading to wage disputes that sometimes result in legal action.
Human Smuggling and Trafficking
Immigrants are often charged with human smuggling or trafficking, especially when part of organized efforts to bring friends, family members, and others across borders illegally.
Drug-Related Crimes
Immigrants may be involved in drug-related offenses. However, immigrants are sometimes coerced into drug trafficking by criminal organizations as part of their migration journey. This is often due to their communication issues and lack of knowledge of the legal system.
Domestic Violence
Immigrants may be accused of domestic violence, particularly in cases where they are isolated or face cultural or language barriers. In some cases, victims of domestic violence may also be criminalized due to misunderstandings or lack of legal representation.
Traffic Violations
Immigrants who do not have access to driver’s licenses due to their status may face charges for driving without a license, insurance, or registration. This can lead to additional legal complications.
Public Order Offenses
Loitering, disorderly conduct, or other minor public order offenses can sometimes disproportionately affect immigrants, particularly if they are under increased surveillance by law enforcement.
Contact Us Today
Immigrants are often taken advantage of due to their lack of native status. Because they are not usually knowledgeable of the legal system in the United States, they are often wrongly accused of crimes.
If you are facing immigration-related crimes, contact a Houston criminal defense attorney from John T. Floyd Law Firm. We know that immigrants are often unfairly deported for crimes. Let us defend you. Call (713) 224-0101 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation today.
