Actor Andrew Boryski was charged with multiple criminal counts for allegedly cheating aspiring actors out of thousands of dollars in an immigration visa scam, the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office said Thursday in a press release.
The Canadian national operated a Los Angeles area immigration consulting business that sought O-1 visas on behalf of aspiring foreign actors. The O-1 visa is intended for established entertainment professionals with work pending in the United States – not for newcomers to the business without actual employment, as was the case with Boryski’s alleged victims.
Now Boryski, an aspiring actor himself, is charged with 32 misdemeanor counts, including three counts of grand theft, one count of practicing law without a license, and 28 counts of violating provisions of the Immigration Consultant Act. If convicted, Boryski could face up to one year in jail for each count, or 32 years.
“We will hold accountable charlatans who prey upon the career aspirations of others,” said City Attorney Carmen Trutanich. “People who come to Los Angeles to work must be aware that it is illegal for immigration consultants to provide legal advice. Before paying them a penny, they should contact the appropriate agency and verify the consultant’s credentials.”
Immigration service scams can have devastating consequences for any aspiring actor. All aspiring actors should take an active part in their own protection by practicing due diligence and getting educated about the rules and process for work visas.
More information can be found on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services website and the California Attorney General’s website.
There are many factors that determine the outcome of a grand theft case and having a highly skilled Los Angeles Grand Theft Defense attorney is vital in making sure you get the best possible result in your case. The attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have been helping those charged with grand theft in Los Angeles for over 30 years. You can call us at 888-280-6839 or visit our website www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.
