Cops: Pennsylvania honors student was 23-year-old Ukrainian

A 23-year-old Ukrainian pretended to be a Pennsylvania high school student, earning a spot in the National Honor Society and joining the campus’ military cadets program, in a weird bid to stay in the US after his visa expired, police said. At this time, police believe Potts to be a made-up identity and not that of a compromised individual’s.

Harrisburg School District officials have confirmed the arrest of a student at the high school.

The student’s application includes what appear to be transcripts showing the high school senior maintained a 4.0 or higher grade point average, juggled honors and AP classes, and took on courses at the Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.

He had been masquerading as a schoolboy for four years because his visa had run out, and managed to achieve stunning credentials while doing so. Stephayne McClure-Potts also allegedly helped Samarin obtain a Pennsylvania drivers license under his fake name, Asher Potts.

Samarin was arrested Tuesday afternoon and charged with identity theft, tampering with public records and theft, Pennlive.com reported.

“Yes, he (Samarin) had ‘parents, ‘ and I’d use that term loosely”, Harrisburg police Capt. Gabe Olivera said.

“I marveled at his maturity”, former school district administrator Gene Veno told the local Patriot-News, adding that Samarin was “focused and driven” and “always a gentleman”. “And if there is, they are going to pay, too”.

Samarin posed for a photo with state Representative Patty Kim when he was honoured for his coursework achievements in 2014.

Online court records did not list an attorney for Samarin, who is being held at the Dauphin County Jail.