An undercover investigation by Townhall has led to alarming allegations that some African migrants in Lockland, Ohio, are exploiting the U.S. asylum system. The 26-minute video, which surfaced on January 20, 2026, purports to show individuals being coached on how to meet asylum requirements, encouraged to fabricate application details, and informed that payments could secure favorable outcomes.
At the center of the controversy is Patricia Golder, who is reported to operate a fee-based service that assists migrants with their asylum applications. The footage suggests that Golder receives a portion of the payments made by migrants and boasts of her ability to influence the process through connections with legal professionals or court personnel. One disturbing segment of the video describes a $50,000 payment allegedly divided among multiple participants involved in the asylum process.
Cindy Reis, introduced in the footage as a friend of Golder, is seen explaining to the undercover reporter that Golder helps migrants obtain necessary documentation. The video raises questions about the integrity of the asylum process, suggesting that some migrants do not intend to embrace or adopt core American values while still accessing benefits intended for legitimate asylum seekers.
The footage includes specific interactions with attorneys and judges, with one participant stating, “You get the lawyer and you say, ‘Okay, we have this sheet of paper. I need you to ask the judge how much to carry these people two more years in this country? Probably until we get this project done.’ He say, ‘Okay, give me $50,000.’”
If these claims are accurate, they could point to systematic attempts to bypass legal procedures and constitute serious violations of the asylum process. The video also illustrates a broader flow of activity, from entry to payment, legal maneuvering, and eventual favorable rulings, implying an organized network rather than isolated incidents. Observers note that if verified, these practices could represent a systemic vulnerability within the U.S. immigration system, raising serious questions about accountability and oversight.
Since the release of the footage, Republican lawmakers and policy advocates have pointed to the reporting as justification for stricter oversight of asylum claims and enhanced vetting procedures. The alleged scheme is cited as undermining public trust in the asylum system and exposing taxpayers to potential risks.
The reporting also raises broader policy concerns about the integration of migrants into American society. Some individuals shown in the footage reportedly do not intend to embrace core American values, even while accessing public resources designed to protect legitimate asylum seekers. Advocates argue this highlights the need for robust vetting and enforcement of policies.
Journalists and investigators are currently encouraged to verify the names, dates, payments, and court records tied to these allegations. The footage underscores the necessity for accountability and oversight to ensure the asylum system remains fair, enforceable, and resistant to exploitation. The reporting concludes that allowing such allegations to persist without scrutiny could risk undermining public confidence and the credibility of the immigration process.
