UPDATE: A former resident of Connecticut, Nada Radovan Tomanic, has just pleaded guilty to fabricating claims about war crimes to secure U.S. citizenship. Tomanic, 53, who previously lived in Hartford, took a plea deal in federal court in Bridgeport on Monday, as confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut.
This shocking revelation comes as Tomanic faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, with her sentencing scheduled for February 3. Tomanic, a naturalized citizen from Bosnia and Herzegovina, served in the notorious Zulfikar Special Unit during the 1990s conflict, where she allegedly participated in the abuse of Bosnian Serb civilians.
Authorities report that Tomanic lied during her 2012 naturalization application, denying any involvement in detention facilities or any criminal actions. In a statement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office accused her of concealing violent crimes, stating, “The defendant obtained the privileges of U.S. citizenship through lies and deceit.”
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti emphasized the seriousness of her actions, declaring, “The Department is fully committed to holding accountable those who exploit our immigration system and pose a threat to public safety.” Tomanic’s deceptions continued during her interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer, where she again lied under oath about her military service and criminal history.
U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan condemned her actions, stating, “Covering up past human rights abuses to attain U.S. citizenship is an egregious offense.” He thanked law enforcement partners in both the U.S. and Bosnia and Herzegovina for their role in bringing this case to light.
The FBI also expressed serious concerns about the implications of her fraudulent claims. Special Agent in Charge P.J. O’Brien remarked, “Individuals who lie on their naturalization documents undermine the process for all who justly apply to be a part of our great nation.” He confirmed ongoing investigations into crimes that threaten the integrity of the immigration process.
This case is a stark reminder of the challenges facing immigration authorities as they work to protect the sanctity of the citizenship process. The public is urged to remain vigilant as this developing story unfolds, highlighting the critical need for transparency and accountability in immigration matters.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent case as it progresses through the legal system.
