A two-year investigation into identity theft and fake documents led to the detention of 48 immigrant workers at Burnstein von Seelen Precision Castings in Abbeville, South Carolina, and the indictment of six individuals on related charges.

The named defendants are Jose Luis Aguilar Mejia, Lazaro Hernandez Hernandez (aka Diego Hernandez), Xavier Martinez Adorno, Zenon Rojas-Cabrera, Christopher Douglas Ramey, and Sandy Lynn Willis, with each defendant’s county of residence listed.

Officials stressed that the focus is on prosecuting those who aid illegal immigration, with ongoing state investigations and prosecutions highlighted by Attorney General Alan Wilson.

The operation involved collaboration between state authorities and federal agencies, underscoring a multi-jurisdictional approach.

The probe is linked to broader state discussions about 287(g) agreements and local enforcement collaboration with federal immigration authorities, with several local departments not yet participating.

Overall efforts in South Carolina aim to strengthen immigration enforcement, noting limited participation in 287(g) programs by Abbeville and neighboring jurisdictions.

The investigation spans multiple agencies, including SLED, HSI, ICE, DHS, and several county sheriff’s offices, with prosecutions led by the State Grand Jury and Creighton Waters along with David Fernandez.

A two-year, interagency operation has involved broad coordination among law enforcement partners, including federal support, and is not described as a political action.

The case is overseen by the South Carolina state grand jury criminal section, with ongoing updates as the investigation progresses.

Officials state the goal is not to target immigrant communities but to pursue illegal conduct; civil liberties groups have raised concerns about fear and impacts on families.

The ACLU is seeking more information and has urged individuals involved in the operation to provide additional details.

Officials note different federal and state approaches to immigration enforcement during a transition between administrations, highlighting ongoing cooperation and policy tensions.