A Venezuelan national’s attempt to adopt the life of an Ohio high school student using fraudulent documents lands him in serious legal trouble.
At a Glance
- Anthony Labrador-Sierra, 24, faces federal charges after posing as a 16-year-old high school student in Ohio using fake documents.
- Federal authorities have dropped local charges, opting for more severe fraud charges and attempted gun acquisition accusations.
- Labrador-Sierra’s visa expired in 2019, and he deceitfully enrolled in high school under his false identity.
- Perrysburg School District alerted police upon discovering his real identity, prompting an investigation involving multiple agencies.
Fraudulent School Enrollment
Anthony Labrador-Sierra, a 24-year-old Venezuelan national, is facing federal charges in the United States for allegedly masquerading as a high school student in Ohio. Authorities arrested him on May 21, accusing him of using fraudulent documents such as a falsified Ohio driver’s license and Social Security card to enroll in Perrysburg High School as a 16-year-old.
Labrador-Sierra attended the high school for over a year, starting in January, before educational officials uncovered his true identity. School authorities, frustrated by the deception, have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the student’s safety and swiftly involving law enforcement. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and ICE confirmed the use of phony documents in his enrollment process.
Federal Charges and Visa Overstay
Labrador-Sierra’s local charges were dropped as federal authorities intervened, charging him with more serious offenses. He faces allegations of submitting false Temporary Protected Status applications and Employment Authorization Documents. Investigations reveal an overstayed visa dating back to 2019. If found guilty, Labrador-Sierra could serve up to 15 years in prison.
“Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our students. When we learn of a concerning situation, we act.” – Tom Hosler
The Perrysburg School District, upon confirming his true age, immediately took action to remove Labrador-Sierra from the premises and informed law enforcement. Labrador-Sierra waived his right to a preliminary hearing, paving the way for a grand jury appearance.
Community Reaction and Investigation
The revelation stirred strong emotions within the school district and the community. Described by officials as both “heartbreaking” and “highly unusual and deceptive,” it brings to light the need for vigilance. The district praised community members for the compassion they showed, believing Labrador-Sierra was a vulnerable teen and offering support accordingly.
“they believed was a vulnerable teen. Their compassion reflects the best of our community. Though trust was violated, we remain proud of those who chose to help.” – The district
Multiple agencies, including the FBI and DHS, are involved in the ongoing investigation. Federal court documents suggest Labrador-Sierra also attempted to acquire firearms unlawfully. The district continues reassessing enrollment practices, ensuring compliance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act to maintain educational access for genuine homeless youths.
