Hector Martinez and Cruz Maria Perez-Mesa, Courtesy of the Luzerne County District Attorney’s Office
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Two people are wanted on allegations they scammed multiple people seeking immigration assistance, according to Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce.
Hector Martinez-Echavarria, also known as Daniel Martinez, presented himself as an immigration attorney to several members of the Wilkes-Barre community as he was paid for services in helping in acquiring legal working papers, family petitions and other miscellaneous services, Sanguedolce stated.
Sanguedolce said victims who paid Martinez-Echavarria never received the help that was promised.
Cruz Maria Perez-Mesa allegedly appeared with Martinez-Echavarria multiple times and assisted in presenting his authenticity as a lawyer, Sanguedolce stated.
County detectives suspect Martinez-Echavarria scammed people from September 2023 through April 2024. At least 11 individuals reported being scammed, Sanguedolce stated.
Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Martinez-Echavarria and Perez-Mesa is asked to call county Detective Neil Murphy at 570-825-1674.