Eleven years ago, Angeles immigrated to New York from San Jerónimo, Guerrero. Since then, he has worked as a cashier at different stores in the Bronx. However, he hasn't been able to earn a decent salary at any of his jobs, one that helps cover his basic expenses and save money to build a house back in his hometown.

Two weeks ago, Angeles found out through several acquaintances that a supermarket near his apartment was hiring experienced cashiers and offering a very attractive salary. Although Angeles was well suited for the job, he still needed a social security number.

"They told me that on Roosevelt Avenue, in Queens, I could get a fake social security number, but I had to know who to ask and where to go. In fact, you can get any American document you need there," said Angeles, who decided to buy a social security number and a Green Card for $40 each.

A vicious cycle

"You can get a driver's license on this street for $50 or $60, and a work permit for $60. You can also get an identification card, passports, a consular registration card, whatever you need," said "Don Ray," a dealer in the area.

In 2007, after a two-year investigation, the NYPD apprehended two groups in Jackson Heights, Queens, which produced thousands of identification documents for purchase by undocumented immigrants. It is estimated that these groups earned $1.5 million a year. The district attorney's office accused 41 people of operating or participating in the two illegal enterprises that sold false documents.

"After three years of police operations, things in the streets are still the same, except that the number of gangs has risen. In turn, the gangs protect the people [selling false documents], which makes it very difficult for the police to do something," said Don Ray.