Sebastian Valencia Jefferson, a 47-year-old Manchester-based consultant, was sentenced on Friday, 6 December 2024, at Manchester Crown Court for providing unauthorised immigration advice and services.
Jefferson, the sole director and shareholder of Proxima Consulting Group Ltd, pleaded guilty on 17 September 2024 to 11 counts of violating Section 91 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. The court’s sentencing reflects the serious nature of offering unregulated immigration services to vulnerable populations.
Sentencing Details
The court imposed a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, accompanied by additional penalties including:
- 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days
- 150 hours of unpaid work
- A personal financial contribution
- A fine for his company, Proxima Consulting Group Ltd
Scope of Unauthorised Activities
Between February 2021 and March 2023, Jefferson systematically provided immigration and nationality application services to members of the Iranian community in North West England. Despite lacking proper authorisation, he brazenly advertised these services through the company’s website and social media platforms.
Regulatory Response
John Tuckett, Immigration Services Commissioner, stressed the critical nature of the case, stating, “This outcome sends a clear message that providing immigration advice and services without proper authorisation will not be tolerated. Unregulated advisers put vulnerable individuals at risk.”
Investigation Process
The case originated from alerts by the Home Office about multiple suspicious applications. A comprehensive investigation involving the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), the Home Office, and Greater Manchester Police culminated in a thorough search of Proxima Consulting Group Ltd’s Manchester premises.
