The general manager and three employees of an El Cajon business that was raided by federal agents are facing immigration-related charges.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office alleges that San Diego Powder & Protective Coatings’ general manager John Washburn, employed undocumented workers and let them live in the company’s warehouse.
Washburn, 57, is charged with conspiracy to harbor aliens, while the three employees face charges of using false documents to work in the United States.
Federal authorities swarmed the warehouse on Magnolia Avenue on Thursday and detained numerous individuals. The business specializes in paint and coatings, including for military and government vessels.
According to a criminal complaint filed in federal court, the investigation into the business involved an undercover Homeland Security Investigations agent who obtained a job there with a fraudulent Permanent Resident card and Social Security number.
The agent was helped by a “confidential source” who worked there and told Washburn he was looking to get his “friend” a job. The complaint alleges that during the conversation, it was clear Washburn was aware the “friend” was undocumented and that multiple other employees at the business were also undocumented.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara L. Major set bond for Washburn at $5,000. A preliminary hearing is set for April 8.
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