Syracuse woman charged with illegal voting after discovering German birth certificate

Marva Cook, a 66-year-old Syracuse resident, has been charged with voting illegally in the 2022 midterm elections. Federal prosecutors say she cast ballots despite not being a U.S. citizen.

Cook was adopted as a toddler and had always assumed she was born in the United States. While searching for her biological mother, she discovered she had a German birth certificate.

“I'm about kindness and service and doing for others as I want to be treated.”

Prosecutors state that Cook has held a green card for several years. The single federal charge against her carries a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 if convicted.

Cook could also face deportation under federal law. Her lawyer, Paul Tuck, said there are no pending immigration proceedings at this time.

Reached by phone on Friday, Cook declined to discuss the criminal case. She said she was not thrilled by her Wednesday court appearance, during which she was placed in shackles despite turning herself in voluntarily hours earlier.

Cook said she appreciated community support and has faith that God will help her through the situation. Her lawyer added that there are no upcoming hearings or filing deadlines.