Illegal and 'incompetent' Walsall immigration advisor sentenced
An 'incompetent' immigration advisor from Walsall who admitted providing illegal advice has avoided an immediate jail term.
Ms Satpal Kaur Kundi, also known as Veena Kumar, 46 of Caledonian Close, Walsall, pleaded guilty at the Birmingham Magistrates' Court on April 25 to a charge of providing unregulated immigration advice or services between August 2013 and May 2015.
She was sentenced to 10 weeks' imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay compensation of £2,613, costs of £1,604, and a victim surcharge of £80.
On sentencing, the magistrate said: "The offence had been aggravated by your incompetent service, prejudice caused to the victim's immigration status and money charged over a prolonged period of time.
"You have also shown a disregard for statutory requirements and used fraudulent methods in doing so"
Speaking about the decision, Deputy Immigration Services Commissioner, Ian Leigh, said: "The OISC is here to ensure that people seeking immigration advice are treated fairly by people they can trust.
"Ms Kundi chose to operate outside the law, and without regard for the protection of her clients.
"I am delighted with the outcome of this case, and I hope it sends a clear message to other people considering providing immigration advice – act within the law or you will find yourself in court."
