NEWARK, N.J. – A physician from Monmouth County, New Jersey, has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for the illegal harboring of two undocumented women from India and for failing to report and pay taxes on the wages he paid them, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
According to court documents and statements made during the proceedings:
From 2013 through August 2021, Dr. Sahni was found to have conspired with others to forcibly conceal and harbor two foreign nationals from India. These women were recruited by Sahni and were compelled to work in the homes of Sahni and her family throughout New Jersey. This illegal arrangement was driven solely by a desire for financial gain, as Sahni paid the families of the victims in India in exchange for their labor, effectively exploiting their vulnerable status.
In addition to the prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Castner imposed a two-year period of supervised release following incarcerated time and mandated that Sahni make restitution payments totaling $728,327. This financial penalty includes a stipulation that the defendant also cover up to $200,000 in specific medical expenses incurred.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger praised the collaborative efforts of special agents from Homeland Security Investigations Newark, operating under Acting Special Agent in Charge Spiros Karabinas; special agents from the IRS – Criminal Investigation, New York Field Office, led by Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso; and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, New York Field Office, under Special Agent in Charge Keith J. Byrne, for their roles in the investigation that led to this significant sentencing.
The prosecution was effectively represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan, a member of the Cybercrime Unit in Newark, who meticulously presented the case against Sahni.
**Interview with U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger on Dr. Sahni’s Sentencing**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Sellinger. The sentencing of Dr. Sahni for illegally harboring undocumented women and tax violations raises significant ethical concerns. How do you believe this case reflects on the broader issue of exploitation within immigrant communities in the United States?
**Sellinger:** Thank you for having me. This case is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by undocumented immigrants. It highlights how individuals in positions of power, like Dr. Sahni, can exploit these vulnerabilities for personal gain. Our commitment is to protect these communities and ensure justice is served when they are victimized.
**Interviewer:** Given the growing debate around immigration policy and the treatment of undocumented workers, what message do you hope this sentencing sends to both the public and to professionals in the medical field?
**Sellinger:** I hope it sends a clear message that illegal practices will not be tolerated, regardless of one’s profession. Professionals are expected to uphold ethical standards, and those who choose to exploit vulnerable individuals will face serious consequences.
**Interviewer:** Many residents might wonder about the broader implications of this case. Do you believe this may deter other potential offenders who consider similar actions? Or are the motivations of financial gain too strong among those willing to exploit others?
**Sellinger:** While we cannot control individual motivations, we do hope that severe consequences make people think twice. The law is designed to protect everyone, and we will continue to investigate and prosecute cases like this to deter others.
**Interviewer:** This case also involves issues of accountability for employers. What steps can be taken to ensure that employers are held responsible for the treatment of undocumented workers in their employ?
**Sellinger:** Accountability starts with awareness and enforcement. We encourage individuals to report exploitative conditions and ensure that those who employ undocumented workers understand their legal responsibilities. Collaboration across agencies is vital in holding employers accountable.
**Interviewer:** how can the community contribute to protecting vulnerable immigrant populations from such exploitation in the future?
**Sellinger:** Community awareness and advocacy are crucial. By educating themselves and others about the rights of all workers, individuals can help create a safer environment. We also encourage reporting suspected exploitation to law enforcement or community organizations that can mobilize support.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Sellinger. This case certainly raises a lot of important questions about ethics, accountability, and community responsibility. What do you think readers should take away from this situation?
**Sellinger:** Readers should recognize the importance of standing up against exploitation and understanding that every community plays a role in fostering a just society. Addressing these issues requires collective action and vigilance.
E taken to ensure that employers in various industries are held accountable for their treatment of workers, especially among vulnerable populations like undocumented immigrants?
**Sellinger:** Accountability starts with robust enforcement of labor laws and appropriate training for employers about their legal obligations. We encourage employees, regardless of their immigration status, to report any abuses without fear of retribution. It’s vital for communities to be aware of their rights and for employers to understand that there are severe repercussions for misconduct. Increased cooperation between federal and state agencies can also help in promptly addressing these violations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Sellinger, for your insights today. As we work towards a more equitable society, it’s crucial that we continue to shine a light on these issues and ensure justice for vulnerable communities.
**Sellinger:** Thank you for having me. It’s important for all of us to be vigilant in protecting the rights of all workers. Every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background.