DOJ Files Cases to Revoke Citizenship of 40 Naturalized Americans

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed denaturalization actions against 40 naturalized citizens in federal courts, seeking to revoke citizenship obtained through alleged fraud or concealment of key facts. The cases, filed between August 21 and October 2, 2026, involve people across the country accused of immigration violations or serious crimes.

According to DOJ statements cited by multiple outlets, the effort is the largest denaturalization initiative during the Trump administration. Federal courts can revoke naturalized citizenship if the government proves it was obtained illegally through concealment of a material fact or willful misrepresentation.

The DOJ said the cases include allegations involving identity fraud, false statements during naturalization proceedings, criminal convictions, and other conduct. The agency said the defendants include residents from countries including Mexico, China, Iran, Pakistan, and the Philippines.

Attorney General Todd Blanche described the initiative as a major enforcement action in a statement cited by Newsweek and other outlets.

"Largest denaturalization effort in modern history" was the description used by the Justice Department in announcing the cases, according to reports.

One case involves Chicago resident Emmanuel Tayo Akinkunmi, a Nigerian-born man who became a U.S. citizen in 2011. A federal complaint alleges he previously used another identity, abandoned permanent resident status, and concealed immigration history during later applications.

The complaint alleges Akinkunmi "procured his naturalization unlawfully" and "willfully misrepresented and concealed material facts in applying to naturalize." The government also alleges he "was never lawfully admitted to the United States as a permanent resident" and sought immigration benefits through "fraud" or "willfully misrepresenting a material fact."

Arizona cases include Gilbert Barraza, 58, who prosecutors allege falsely claimed U.S. birth and later obtained citizenship after concealing passport fraud, and Gracia de Rodriguez, 52, who prosecutors say misrepresented her spouse's identity during immigration proceedings.

Florida cases announced by the DOJ include five residents accused of offenses ranging from immigration fraud to tax-related crimes and other serious misconduct. The agency said one defendant, Ralph Nabavi, admitted tax evasion involving millions of dollars before naturalization.

The Justice Department also cited a case involving Jinchao Wei, a former Chinese-born U.S. Navy sailor convicted of espionage-related charges. The Guardian reported that the denaturalization actions are part of an expanded federal effort after the administration directed officials to pursue more cases.

Historically, denaturalization has been uncommon because cases require federal court proceedings and significant government resources. The Supreme Court has previously limited revocation authority, including in Maslenjak v. United States, which held that an illegal act must have played a role in obtaining citizenship.