A Cuban resident in Miami-Dade, María de Lourdes Van-Caneghem, faces charges for allegedly posing as an immigration attorney and defrauding a woman seeking legal assistance after her husband's detention by immigration authorities, according to local reports and law enforcement.
This incident has led to additional charges, adding to her recent history of fraud allegations, including a previous case where she purportedly impersonated an immigration officer, as reported by Telemundo 51.
The Miami Police Department, as cited by various media outlets, initiated an investigation into the alleged impersonation after a complaint was filed on July 25, 2025.
The victim claimed that a relative provided her with Van-Caneghem's contact information, who allegedly claimed to be a lawyer.
According to the official account, Van-Caneghem requested $2,000 for immigration services but ultimately accepted $1,440, paid through two money orders.
Subsequently, when the victim sought a receipt for the payment, she received no response.
Police noted that the victim conducted an online search and discovered a history of fraud-related arrests linked to Van-Caneghem's name, prompting her to reach out to the authorities.
The financial crimes unit later confirmed, as per reports, that the money orders had been cashed. Detectives reinforced the case with records obtained via subpoena and surveillance footage; additionally, the victim identified the suspect in a photo lineup.
Authorities stated that charges of organized scheme to defraud and third-degree grand theft were added to this case.
As of Friday morning, Van-Caneghem remained in custody at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center; according to records cited by Local 10, her bail status was listed as "to be set."
This case adds to previous allegations. In September 2025, Local 10 reported that Van-Caneghem—identified as a Cuban-born woman—was accused of posing as a corrupt immigration officer to scam migrants in Miami-Dade.
Additionally, reports mention a 2022 case where she allegedly stole approximately $119,000 from clients of a travel agency ("Hello Cuba Travel") by selling non-existent airline tickets.
The outlet also noted that court records show more than a dozen fraud-related cases in Miami-Dade since 2019 and that following a conviction for grand theft in a 2023 case, she was granted probation from 2024 to 2034.
The Miami Police Department urged anyone who believes they have been affected by similar schemes to contact the authorities.
Understanding Fraud Cases in Miami-Dade
What charges is Van-Caneghem facing?
Van-Caneghem is facing charges of organized scheme to defraud and third-degree grand theft.
How did the authorities confirm the fraud?
The authorities confirmed the fraud through cashed money orders, records obtained by subpoena, and surveillance footage.
What should victims of similar scams do?
Victims of similar scams are encouraged to contact the Miami Police Department or relevant authorities.