Afghan National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry

ALBANY, NEW YORK - Khan Afsar Ahmadzai, age 30, of Kabul, Afghanistan pleaded guilty to illegal re-entry into the United States and was immediately sentenced.

The announcement was made by First Assistant United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, and U.S. Border Patrol's Swanton Sector Acting Chief Richard J. Fortunato.

As part of his guilty plea, Khan Afsar Ahmadzai admitted that on June 3, 2026, he entered the United States from Canada by walking across the international boundary near Champlain, New York, avoiding United States Immigration and Customs inspection. Khan Afsar Ahmadzai was subsequently apprehended by United States Border Patrol Agents.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone said, "This defendant has repeatedly attempted to violate U.S. immigration laws. This Administration is delivering on its commitment to secure our borders each and every day. Thanks to the vigilance of our partners at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, he was apprehended and arrested. Following his sentence, Ahmadzai will be subject to deportation."

Swanton Sector's Acting Chief Patrol Agent Richard J. Fortunato said, "I commend the agents of Swanton Sector for their hard work in contributing to the successful prosecution of those who commit crimes along our nation's borders. Our efforts help protect and improve the quality of life for border communities and for those in the interior of our country."

Prior to this case, in May 2026, Khan Afsar Ahmadzai had entered the United States at the Port of Entry near Niagara Falls, New York, but was denied entry by immigration officials. Khan Afsar Ahmadzai was subsequently returned to Canada.

Immediately following his guilty plea, Khan Afsar Ahmadzai was sentenced to 51 days in jail.

This case was investigated by United States Border Patrol and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy Anderson.