Fact Check: "Naturalized citizens can lose their citizenship if they commit certain crimes."
What We Know
Naturalized citizens in the United States can indeed lose their citizenship under specific circumstances, particularly if they commit certain crimes. According to the U.S. government, naturalized citizens may face denaturalization if they engage in acts such as treason or if their citizenship was obtained through fraudulent means (source-1). The Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently emphasized that it will prioritize denaturalization cases involving naturalized citizens who commit crimes, including national security violations and fraud against the government (source-4).
The legal framework for this process is outlined in various sources, including the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy manual, which states that naturalization can be revoked if it was obtained through deceit or misrepresentation (source-3).
Analysis
The claim that naturalized citizens can lose their citizenship if they commit certain crimes is supported by multiple credible sources. The DOJ's recent memo indicates a clear intent to pursue denaturalization aggressively, particularly targeting those who may have committed serious offenses prior to or after their naturalization (source-4). This aligns with existing laws that allow for the revocation of citizenship under specific conditions, such as committing acts of treason or obtaining citizenship through fraudulent means (source-1).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they originate from official government websites and reputable news organizations. The DOJ's statements reflect current policy and enforcement priorities, which are subject to legal scrutiny and public debate. However, concerns have been raised by legal experts regarding the potential for abuse of this power, particularly in how broadly the DOJ may interpret the criteria for denaturalization (source-4).
Conclusion
The verdict is True. Naturalized citizens can indeed lose their citizenship if they commit certain crimes, as outlined by U.S. law and emphasized in recent DOJ policies. The legal framework supports this claim, and the government's current actions reflect a commitment to enforce denaturalization in cases involving serious criminal activity.
