TUCSON, Ariz. — A Pima County man faces federal charges after prosecutors allege he fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship by concealing his history of sex crimes against children.
Juan Antonio Ruiz, 47, was indicted March 18 on naturalization fraud charges. Court documents reveal Ruiz became a naturalized citizen in June 2015 by falsely answering “no” when asked if he had ever committed crimes for which he wasn’t arrested.
Case Timeline:
• 2003-2008: Alleged sex crimes against minor occurred
• 2015: Ruiz obtained citizenship without disclosing offenses
• 2018: Arrested for sexual conduct with minor under 15 and attempted child molestation
• 2021: Pleaded guilty to state charges in Pima County Superior Court
The indictment comes after Homeland Security Investigations uncovered the discrepancy between Ruiz’s citizenship application and his subsequent criminal conviction. If found guilty, Ruiz could face up to 10 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and revocation of his citizenship.
“Citizenship is a privilege earned through honesty and adherence to our laws,” said a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office. “This case demonstrates our commitment to upholding the integrity of the naturalization process.”