Archive · 18 Jul 2025
Louisiana Businessman and Police Charged in Decade-Long Visa Fraud
An Indian businessman, Chandrakant "Lala" Patel, is accused of masterminding a scheme to help immigrants get visas using fake reports.
He worked with police officers who took bribes to create false armed robbery reports.
Immigrants would pay Patel, who would then list them as victims in these fake reports so they could apply for U-visas.
Hundreds of fraudulent visas were issued over nearly 10 years.
If convicted, the accused could face decades in prison.
Businessman Chandrakant "Lala" Patel and four law enforcement officers are charged with visa fraud.
They allegedly created fake armed robbery reports for immigrants to obtain U-visas.
Immigrants paid Patel, who then coordinated with police to falsely report them as crime victims.
The scheme operated for nearly a decade and involved hundreds of fraudulent visas.
The accused face multiple charges, including conspiracy, bribery, and money laundering.
- Who
- Chandrakant "Lala" Patel, Oakdale Police Chief Chad Doyle, Forest Hill Police Chief Glynn Dixon, former Glenmora Police Chief Tebo Onishea, and Oakdale Marshal Michael "Freck" Slaney.
- What
- An Indian-origin businessman and police officials are charged with visa fraud involving fake armed robbery reports.
- When
- The scheme operated for nearly a decade.
- Where
- Louisiana, USA
- Why
- To fraudulently obtain U-visas for immigrants.
Government Prosecution
Defendant
Defendant's Actions
Government Prosecution
Defendants intentionally created fraudulent reports and abused the U-visa program.
Defendant
Defendants maintain their innocence.
- Defendant
- Chandrakant "Lala" Patel
- Charges
- Conspiracy, bribery, mailing false documents, money laundering
- Involved Officials
- Oakdale Police Chief Chad Doyle, Forest Hill Police Chief Glynn Dixon, former Glenmora Police Chief Tebo Onishea, Oakdale Marshal Michael Slaney
- Alleged Scheme
- Creating and filing false police reports of armed robberies
- Visa Type
- U-visas
- Investigation Lead By
- Homeland Security Investigations
