In a startling case of deception, a 24-year-old Venezuelan man, Anthony Emmanuel Labrador Sierra, was arrested in connection with an Ohio high school impersonation arrest. Authorities say he posed as a 16-year-old student at Perrysburg Schools, enrolling under a false identity.
Labrador was taken into custody on Monday and charged with forgery after months of posing as a high school junior. The impersonation reportedly began in January 2024.
False Claims of Homelessness and Human Trafficking
According to the City of Perrysburg Police, Labrador contacted the district in November 2023, claiming he was homeless and an immigrant from Venezuela. He also stated he was a victim of human trafficking.
To support his story, he provided a Venezuelan birth certificate listing December 2, 2007, as his date of birth. He told the school he was residing in Toledo and was allowed to enroll on January 19, 2024.
Trusted Family Deceived
Local residents Kathy and Brad Melfred, known for supporting exchange students, were asked to assist Labrador. They agreed and welcomed him into their home on March 21, 2024.
The couple was later granted permanent guardianship through the Wood County Common Pleas Court Juvenile Division. They also helped him secure a Social Security number and an Ohio driver’s license, unknowingly assisting in his deception.
Truth Emerges Through Shocking Phone Call
The impersonation unraveled on May 14, when Evelyn Camacho contacted the Melfreds. She claimed that Labrador was actually 24 years old and the father of her child.
She provided a copy of his real driver’s license with a birthdate of March 27, 2001, along with Facebook photos of herself, her Labrador, and their child.
Federal Immigration Violation
Police contacted the United States Border Patrol, who confirmed Labrador’s real identity and revealed he had an expired work visa, making him an overstay in the country.
His visa had expired the same year he approached Perrysburg Schools.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
On May 20, Labrador was arrested at 4:15 p.m. after being located in a vehicle on Interstate 75. He is currently facing forgery charges and remains held at the Wood County Jail.
Records show his next court date is May 29, though it remains unclear if he has retained legal counsel.
Involvement in School Sports Raises Questions
During his time at the school, Labrador actively participated in junior varsity soccer and swim teams. Perrysburg School District has since reported the incident to the Ohio High School Athletic Association for review.
Broader Implications of Ohio High School Impersonation Arrest
The Ohio high school impersonation arrest raises serious concerns about enrollment verification, immigration enforcement, and the vulnerability of public institutions to sophisticated fraud.
Authorities are continuing their investigation as the legal process unfolds.
