A Nicaraguan national has pleaded guilty to misuse of a social security number in federal court in New Orleans. Leonardo Paramo-Barbas, 29, entered his plea on August 13, 2025, according to Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
Paramo-Barbas admitted to illegally using a social security number that did not belong to him for the purpose of obtaining and maintaining employment. The offense took place on July 20, 2022.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance. Paramo-Barbas faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. He is also required to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
“This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime,” Simpson said.
Simpson commended Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement Removal Office and Homeland Security Investigations for their work on the case. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman prosecuted the matter as part of the General Crimes Unit.
