Babauta has been charged with one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, two counts of fraud and misuse of immigration documents, and conspiracy to commit offenses.
During Babauta’s initial appearance before Designated Presiding Judge David A. Wiseman on Friday, the court found the defendant to be indigent and ordered the appointment of a lawyer for his defense.
Babauta was later released on his own recognizance.
According to the prosecution, Babauta defrauded Zhi Yuan Li by promising to bring his daughter to Saipan from Fujian, China in exchange for money.
From Aug. 25, 2008 to Oct. 11, 2008, Babauta defrauded Li of his money and property by means of a scheme through false and fraudulent representations and promises, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Schuler said.
He added that Li was also made to believe by Babauta that his father, House Minority Leader Oscar M. Babauta, will be able to bring Li’s daughter living in China to the CNMI.
