H-1B Applicant Arrested Over False Walmart Accusation

An Indian F-1 student finds herself in serious trouble. A misunderstanding at Walmart has left her with a criminal record.

The student has recently graduated with a degree in Data Science, fulfilling her dream to study in the US. However, finding a job has proven to be nearly impossible, while loan EMIs continue to pile up.

In her first year, she had been arrested on suspicion of theft at a Walmart. The confusion had stemmed from the fact that she had accidentally carried out an unbilled item in her trolley.

Even though she offered to pay for the item, Walmart employees ignored her and contacted the police. This led to her arrest and a criminal record.

While her lawyer has stated that the record will be erased next year, immigration experts have different opinions. The USCIS can still view sealed or even expunged records when reviewing H-1B applications.

This means that her work permit application and future H-1B application may never be approved. While inadmissibility depends on the charge and resolution, the current situation in the US means even the smallest of charges can lead deportation.

This is among many such cases that have taken place after the immigration crackdown in the US. No foreign workers in the country are safe from arbitrary charges and potential deportation.