Federal law requires all U.S. employers to verify that their employees are authorized to work in the United States, typically through the E-Verify system. Failing to comply with this mandate can lead to serious legal consequences — not only for undocumented workers, but especially for employers who knowingly bypass the process. When businesses attempt to cut corners, they put lives, livelihoods, and entire operations at risk. A recent case involving Robert and Brenda Clouston illustrates exactly how devastating those consequences can be—and why consulting an experienced Beverly Hills, CA immigration lawyer is imperative when facing these issues.
In mid-July 2025, Robert and Brenda Clouston, owners of five Colt Grill restaurant locations in Arizona and Alabama, were arrested on multiple federal charges, all stemming from the illegal hiring, transporting, and harboring of undocumented immigrants.
Federal prosecutors allege that the Cloustons recruited Mexican nationals without legal work authorization, paid them cash under the table below minimum wages, and deliberately avoided paying overtime or payroll taxes. The couple is also accused of firing U.S. citizens and replacing them with undocumented workers to cut costs. In an effort to cover their tracks, the Cloustons allegedly created a fake cleaning company to facilitate off-the-books payments to illegal immigrants and shield the restaurants’ accounting records.
KSBY asked our managing partner, Ally Bolour, for comment as a local immigration law attorney. Ally’s insights address the broader issue of employers taking advantage of undocumented workers: “The reality is that these are actually U.S. groups that victimize immigrants to make money.”
At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, we see cases like this far too often — where undocumented immigrants are recruited, underpaid, and ultimately scapegoated by the very employers who exploit them. Many of these individuals come to the U.S. in search of safety and opportunity, only to find themselves used as cheap labor in conditions that violate both labor and immigration laws.
For nearly three decades, our firm has represented individuals before U.S. immigration courts and USCIS. We understand how confusing and intimidating the system can be, especially for those who are simply trying to make ends meet. That’s why we are committed to offering compassionate, strategic, and personalized legal counsel to every client we serve.
We take pride in the diversity that defines our team. Many of us are immigrants ourselves, or the children of immigrants. We’ve walked similar paths, and we bring that understanding into every case we take on. Whether you’re seeking legal status, defending against removal, applying for a work visa, or responding to a workplace raid or investigation, we are here to fight for your rights.
This case serves as a reminder that immigration law isn’t just about policy — it’s about people. And when people are exploited, we believe in standing up for them.
If you or someone you know is facing a situation involving undocumented work, immigration-related criminal charges, or employer exploitation, you don’t have to face it alone. These cases are complicated, but with the right legal strategy, there are often more options than you think. At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, we’re here to listen, assess your situation, and help you understand your rights and next steps. Schedule a confidential consultation with us today. We’re ready to stand with you and advocate for your future.
