Local charges dropped as feds target Venezuelan accused of posing as teen at Ohio high school

An individual from Venezuela, who reportedly attempted to impersonate a high school student in Ohio, will no longer face local charges as the case has transitioned to federal court.

Anthony Labrador-Sierra, 24, was arrested May 21, after he allegedly enrolled in a public high school using fraudulent documents.

On Thursday, it was confirmed by the Perrysburg Municipal Court to Fox News Digital that all local charges against Labrador-Sierra have been dropped, with the matter now under federal jurisdiction.

Labrador-Sierra faced a judge in the case and waived his right to a preliminary hearing, according to WTVG.

Perrysburg Police Chief Pat Jones conveyed to FOX 8 News on Wednesday that the investigation thus far seems to represent “just the tip of the iceberg.”

The school district released a statement explaining that it shares “the anger and frustration expressed by many in our community.”

“This individual is accused of misrepresenting his identity, forging documents, and exploiting systems designed to protect vulnerable youth. While emotions are high, it’s important that we remain grounded in facts as this complex situation continues to unfold,” the district wrote in an updated statement.

Anthony Labrador Sierra in Ohio

Anthony Labrador-Sierra swam for the Ohio high school. (Imagn)

The complaint further alleges that Labrador-Sierra does not have lawful status to purchase, own or possess a gun in the United States. 

The agency noted he submitted false information on an Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) form to buy a gun.

He is being held in the Lucas County Jail. 

If convicted, Labrador-Sierra would face up to 15 years in prison for possession of a gun by an alien, 10 years in prison for making a false statement during the purchase of a gun and up to five years in prison for using false documents, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.

“We recognize that more information may still come to light, and we remain committed to learning everything we can as this situation continues to unfold. We will share additional information as we are able,” the school district wrote.

The agency added that the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about the case is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-225-5324. 

Fox News’ Bill Melugin and Greg Wehner contributed to this report. 

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com

You May Also Like
Chicago family's journey sparks national movement focused on understanding transgender, non-binary youth

Chicago Family’s Story Inspires National Push to Better Understand Transgender and Nonbinary Youth

CHICAGO (WLS) — As Pride Month is celebrated across the country, one…
Chicago shooting: Bicyclist shot, killed in Grant Park, police say

Grant Park Shooting: Bicyclist Fatally Shot in Chicago, Police Investigate

CHICAGO (WLS) — A 27-year-old man was fatally shot early Tuesday while…
Pence: Trump's Iran Deal 'Smacks of Appeasement'

Pence Says Trump’s Iran Deal Approach ‘Smacks of Appeasement’

Former Vice President Mike Pence sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s emerging deal…
3 Brazilian men charged after woman tossed from bridge without safety rope

Three Brazilian Men Charged After Woman Thrown From Bridge Without Safety Rope

Three men could face criminal charges after a 21-year-old woman was killed…
The Grammys add five new categories, adjust rules for 2027 Grammy Awards

2027 Grammys Add 5 New Categories and Update Key Award Rules

The Grammy Awards are expanding again, adding five new categories and revising…
California co-eds killed after being swept out to sea by dangerous waves while sleeping

California Co-eds Swept Out to Sea by Dangerous Waves While Sleeping, Authorities Say

Two California college students died after strong surf and rising tides swept…
5 chilling details from the alleged White House attack plot tied to UFC event

5 Disturbing Details in the Alleged White House Attack Plot Linked to a UFC Event

FBI foils alleged drone terror plot targeting White House UFC event The…
"Star Wars" lightsaber, "Wizard of Oz" witch hat and more iconic film props going up for auction

Iconic Movie Props Head to Auction: Star Wars Lightsaber, Wizard of Oz Witch Hat and More

A lightsaber tied to one of the most unforgettable moments in George…
Alaska woman uses weapon to survive terrifying bear attack after predator mauls pooch: 'I thought I was dead'

Alaska Woman Fights Off Bear Attack With Weapon After Dog Is Mauled: “I Thought I Was Dead”

A mushroom-foraging trip on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula took a frightening turn earlier…
A mother's concern, call to authorities may have prevented potential attack on UFC event at the White House

Mother’s Tip to Authorities May Have Stopped Potential Attack at White House UFC Event

A suspected plan to attack Sunday night’s UFC event at the White…
A look back at Barack Obama's rise from community organizer to first Black US president ahead of Chicago Obama Center opening

Barack Obama’s Journey From Community Organizer to America’s First Black President, as Chicago’s Obama Center Nears Opening

CHICAGO (WLS) — Barack Obama’s rise from little-known politician to president of…
Karmelo Anthony claims he's penniless as business records tied to parents draw scrutiny

Karmelo Anthony Says He Is Broke as Parents’ Business Records Face Scrutiny

MCKINNEY, Texas – As convicted killer Karmelo Anthony asks for a taxpayer-funded…