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A federal jury in St. Thomas has convicted Nigel Cooper, a 52-year-old British Virgin Islands resident, for possessing a counterfeit permanent resident card. The trial, presided over by District Court Judge Mark A. Kearney, concluded on February 25, 2026, with the jury finding Cooper guilty of violating federal immigration laws.
The case originated when U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers detained Cooper at the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas. During a routine inspection, officers discovered that Cooper's permanent resident card, commonly known as a green card, was counterfeit. Subsequent investigations confirmed the card's fraudulent nature, leading to Cooper's arrest and prosecution.
During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence demonstrating that Cooper knowingly possessed the counterfeit document with the intent to use it for unlawful purposes. The defense argued that Cooper was unaware of the card's fraudulent status; however, the jury was not persuaded by this claim.
Possession of counterfeit immigration documents is a serious offense under U.S. federal law, carrying potential penalties including imprisonment and fines. The conviction underscores the U.S. government's commitment to enforcing immigration laws and maintaining the integrity of its immigration system.
Sentencing for Cooper is scheduled for a later date. He remains in custody pending sentencing, where he could face significant prison time and deportation proceedings.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance by immigration authorities in detecting and prosecuting the use of fraudulent documents, ensuring that individuals comply with legal immigration processes.
