MI - Man facing sentencing for hiring illegal workers gets letter of support

[stopracism]

Man facing sentencing for hiring illegal workers gets letter support from Grand Rapids Mayor Heartwell, others before sentencing
http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapi...ty_leader.html

Local artist and businessman Oswaldo Garces, who is to be sentenced Tuesday for hiring illegal workers, has support from prominent leaders, including Mayor George Heartwell.

Originally from Ecuador, Garces, who owned Clean Tech Services, has been living in the U.S. since 1993 when he entered on a non-immigrant business visa, which expired after one year. He had been in the process of trying to become a permanent resident.

He was originally charged with possession of firearms and ammunition by an illegal immigrant after police found guns in a safe during a raid at his business to determine if he employed illegal workers. His wife said the guns were for hunting.

As part of a deal, he pleaded guilty to falsely attesting to documents presented by employees not eligible to work in the U.S. and hiring them. He faces up to 10 years in prison, but the probation department recommended probation.

Garces, who raised three children here, submitted 15 letters written on his behalf to U.S. District Court.

Heartwell said he knows Garces as a community leader, contractor for the city and as a friend, who has been a guest in his home.

“Oswaldo is a businessman with a keen sense of the market. … The quality of his work was exceptional and his employees were trained not only to complete their tasks but to be, themselves, diplomats for the company in there interactions with clients."

Heartwell said he wasn't qualified to offer an opinion on the charges, but said he is “eminently qualified to speak to the heart of the man. Oswaldo is a good man; a man who wants to do the right thing for his community, his family and friends.”

Here is what others had to say:

Maria Del Carmen Cruz, founder of Latino Community Coalition: “Mr. Garces moral character is remarkable and, I am certain that, the core of our membership will agree in acknowledging him as an asset to this coalition and the community at large.”

Ken Deering, the city's labor relations manager: “Mr. Garces has been a very caring and involved citizen in this community and one of the finest men I have known.”

Barb Foss, business administrator at Cathedral of Saint Andrew: “He has been a huge asset to our community, and most especially our youth.”

Nathan Goddard, neighbor and friend: “His impact on the community is amazing to see. He is a business owner, community leader, volunteer, artist, husband, father and friend. … Our country needs more people like Oswaldo. … He is a gracious person, ready to give back to a country that hasn't shown open arms for him and others of diverse nationalities.”

Teresa Hendricks, attorney and director of Michigan Migrant Legal Assistance Project, Inc.: “Because of his dedication to helping others who are less fortunate, we have been able to increase our funding base and extend services to a greater number of people. … As a gifted artist, he has also donated precious works of art for our charity auction … .”

Lupe Ramos-Mantigny, community activist: “He was, and remains, a remarkable pillar in our community.”

Bruce Roller, executive director of United Church Outreach Ministry: “Oswaldo Garces has been a role model in the Grand Rapids business community for years.”

Ingrid Scott Weekley, managing director, city administrative services: “If more residences were as caring, compassionate and actively engaged in our community as Mr. Garces, Grand Rapids would be a better place.”

“All of these letters demonstrate what a fundamentally good and decent person Mr. Garces is, how committed he is to his family, church and community, and that he is worthy of consideration by the court,” attorney Charles Chamberlain Jr. wrote.

He said the charges complicate Garces' efforts to stay in the U.S.

[Ayatollahgondola]

Is anyone from that area writing letters of support to get this man deported and sentenced for cheating the legally present citizenry?

[Jeanfromfillmore]

You notice they all scratch each others backs, while lining their pockets. Each uses the other, you just have to follow the money, which just goes in a circle.