Just weird

[Tink]

We have seen a large number of Mexican immigrants in our area in the past year or 2. They come to work in 2 good sized manufacturing companies. In order to cash their paychecks, they come into our bank. We've tried to be lenient while stayng within the guidelines of the law. For them to open an account, they must show certain forms of identification. Some of the things we're seeing are just crazy!

One came in with a social security card that was registered to a 43 yr old dead woman. HE was maybe 25 and looked quite alive! Another came in with a drivers license that we'd seen used just days before by another man. We have to assume that they're not legal documents and could place the bank in a bad spot if we accept them.

My old manager used to allow those who were able to get accounts to cash checks for those who couldn't... by signing and depositing them into their own accounts. They would them withdraw cash and give it to their friend. Now some payroll checks have come up missing at the companies they work at, so we've been asked not to cash any checks for people without accounts and proof of ID.

I feel bad for these people. They are allowed to work, rent houses, and are trying to build lives for themselves here, but they can't cash their paychecks! I understand they're most likely illegal immigrants, but they too have families to feed. Part of my job is to write new accounts, so I am now having to turn these folks down. I don't enjoy this part of my job at all. I'm half expecting to be told we need to turn these people in next. I don't know if I could do it.

So am I blind? Should I be less compassionate about illegal immigrants?
How would you feel in my shoes?