In a federal court admission that echoes the ongoing struggle between immigration law and labor demands, John Washburn, general manager of San Diego Powder & Protective Coatings, pleaded guilty to hiring undocumented immigrants. The company, based in El Cajon, was found to knowingly employ at least 10 workers without proper authorization to work in the United States.
Following the search warrant served by federal agents in March, it emerged that three undocumented workers were residing in a company warehouse, a site also used to store U.S. Navy submarine components. In the plea agreement, Washburn conceded to be aware of the workers' legal status and their living arrangements. Moreover, he admitted to discussions with management staff about the need for "good paperwork" for employees working at military bases, because of the stringent screening processes in place.
As reported by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Washburn's guilty plea to the charges of engaging in a pattern or practice of employing aliens resulted in a sentence to one year of probation and a requirement to complete 50 hours of community service. This case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Henry F.B. Beshar and Michael A. Deshong, and investigated by multiple agencies including Homeland Security Investigations San Diego and the Drug Enforcement Administration San Diego Field Division.
The sentencing highlights the consequences of failing to comply with U.S. immigration laws, particularly when it intersects with national security concerns. The maximum penalty for the charges brought against Washburn includes a potential six months in prison and a $3,000 fine for each undocumented worker employed. In this instance, his penalty reflects the plea deal reached with prosecutors, "Engaging in a Pattern or Practice of Employing Aliens," in violation of Title 8 U.S.C. § 1324a(a)(1)(A) and (f).
