Border security and immigration have been hot topics throughout the United States since the Trump administration took office.

And Montana is no stranger to illegal border crossings along our Hi-Line.

Recently, seven Romanian nationals were accused of crossing illegally from Canada to Montana.

Romanian Nationals Illegally In Montana

Two men, Ionut Gheorghe (27) and Adi Marinescu Gheorghe (32), pleaded not guilty on April 30th to charges of transporting illegal aliens into Montana.

If found guilty, they face up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

Adi Marinescu Gheorghe also faces additional charges of illegal reentry of a removed alien, which is punishable by two years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.

Additional Illegal Aliens Charged In Montana

Five other people—Mihai Mahaela (40), Sorin Sandu (45), Conte Nicolae (19), Alin Amadeus Musuroi (23), and Lacrimoara Nicolae (51)—also pleaded not guilty to entering the U.S. illegally.

They could face up to six months in prison, a $100,000 fine, and one year of supervised release if convicted.

All seven people are being held in custody until their following court dates.

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Romanian Nationals Case Details

According to the court documents, Ionut Gheorghe and Adi Marinescu Gheorghe were each driving a van on April 25th, 2025.

The other dependents were passengers in the vans at the time.

The group attempted to enter the United States along the Canada—Montana border at approximately 2:30 AM on April 25th.

Law-enforcement officers located the van traveling south on I-15, stopped it, and took all its occupants into custody.

They were transported to the Sweet Grass Border Patrol station for further investigation and processing.

A total of 21 men, women, and children were in the vans entering Montana.

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Operation Take Back America

This case is part of "Operation Take Back America," a federal effort to stop illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime.

Remember that these are only charges; all defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty.

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