(WNY News Now) – BUFFALO, N.Y. – An Ontario man was arrested for allegedly providing fraudulent military documents while attempting to enter the United States, U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced.
Omid Kazemimanesh, 38, of Mississauga, Ontario, faces a charge of making a false statement, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Franz M. Wright, Kazemimanesh first attempted entry at the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Port of Entry on October 18, 2024. During his inspection, he claimed to have served in the Iranian Army 13 years prior but failed to provide documentation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers denied his entry, advising him to return with proof of military service.
On March 8, 2025, Kazemimanesh attempted entry again, this time presenting an Iranian military service card and discharge paperwork. He asserted that the documents were original and issued by the Iranian government. However, CBP officers suspected the military card was fraudulent. Further investigation confirmed their suspicions.
CBP and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation leading to the complaint.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and Kazemimanesh is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
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