UPDATE: A former Connecticut resident has just pleaded guilty to committing fraud to gain U.S. citizenship by lying about her involvement in war crimes. Nada Radovan Tomanic, aged 53, now residing in West Virginia, entered a plea deal on Monday, October 30, 2023, in federal court in Bridgeport, Connecticut, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
This urgent case highlights the serious implications of immigration fraud, as Tomanic faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for February 3, 2024. Tomanic, a naturalized citizen originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, served in the notorious Zulfikar Special Unit during the 1990s conflict in the region, where she participated in the “physical and psychological abuse” of Bosnian Serb civilian prisoners.
While applying for U.S. naturalization in 2012, Tomanic falsely denied her military service and any involvement in detaining others. According to federal officials, she also lied under oath during her interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, concealing her past criminal conduct, which included serious bodily harm.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti stated, “The defendant obtained the privileges of U.S. citizenship through lies and deceit, concealing the violent crimes she committed in Bosnia and Herzegovina.” He emphasized the commitment of the Justice Department to hold accountable those who exploit the immigration system and jeopardize public safety.
U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan condemned Tomanic’s actions, emphasizing the egregious nature of lying about past human rights abuses to attain U.S. citizenship. He noted the collaboration between law enforcement agencies in both the U.S. and Bosnia and Herzegovina to ensure justice in this case.
Special Agent in Charge P.J. O’Brien of the FBI highlighted the impact of such fraud on the integrity of the naturalization process. “Individuals who lie on their naturalization documents undermine the process for all who justly apply to be a part of our great nation,” he stated.
This developing story raises crucial questions about immigration integrity and the accountability of those who breach the system. As the legal proceedings continue, the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting the sanctity of U.S. citizenship.
Stay tuned for further updates on this significant case and its implications for immigration policy.
