#fbi

Santa Clara Finalizes Preparations for Historic World Cup Match Santa Clara is in the final stages of organizing logistics to ensure the city’s first World Cup match proceeds without incident on Saturday. Officials emphasized that years of planning have culminated in this moment, with a focus on safety, security, and an immersive fan experience. The city’s first World Cup game will see Team Switzerland face Qatar at Levi’s Stadium, a publicly owned venue that has become a central hub for the event. Team Switzerland arrived at San Jose International Airport on Friday, less than 24 hours before their match against Qatar. The team’s arrival marked the beginning of a coordinated effort to secure the event, with city leaders and federal agencies working in tandem to address potential risks. Mayor Lisa Gillmor highlighted the collaborative nature of the preparations, stating, “I think all of our planning, all of our preparations, are really going to pay off for us and we’re going to have a great World Cup.” She noted that the city has partnered with federal, state, and county authorities to ensure the safety of all attendees. Security operations are a critical component of the preparations. The FBI’s “Operation Goal Kick” outlines three key priorities: partnerships with law enforcement to target violent crime, organized crime, human trafficking, and child exploitation; intelligence sharing with local emergency operations centers and police departments; and the deployment of specialized resources such as bomb technicians. FBI Assistant Special Agent In Charge Matt Cobo assured the public that security measures would be discreet but effective, stating, “You won’t see us, but we will definitely be out there.#qatar #fbi #santa_clara #levis_stadium #team_switzerland

FBI Raids Ohio Progressive Group’s Office Amid Voter Fraud Investigation Federal agents conducted a search of the Ohio Organizing Collaborative’s office on Thursday as part of a Justice Department investigation into its voter registration activities, according to three individuals with knowledge of the matter. The search, confirmed by an FBI spokesperson, followed President Donald Trump’s repeated, unsubstantiated claims about widespread voter fraud and his refusal to concede the 2020 presidential election. The FBI’s actions have drawn criticism from civil rights advocates and lawmakers, who argue the investigation targets progressive groups and undermines democratic processes. The Ohio Organizing Collaborative, a progressive organization founded in 2007, focuses on racial, social, and economic justice initiatives. Its mission includes mobilizing everyday Ohioans to advocate for systemic change. However, the group has faced scrutiny over past legal issues. In 2017, a paid canvasser for the organization pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent voter registration scheme. The current investigation centers on allegations of improper voter registration practices, though no evidence of widespread fraud has been presented. Prentiss Haney, a board member and former director of the organization, accused the Trump administration of using federal law enforcement to intimidate progressive activists. “This administration is fishing to drum up stories around fraud,” Haney told NBC News. “They’re weaponizing the government and using taxpayer dollars to conduct illegitimate investigations.” Haney alleged that agents visited the homes of affiliated individuals, describing the tactics as an attempt to suppress voter registration efforts. Rep.#president_donald_trump #fbi #ohio_organizing_collaborative #shontel_brown #frank_larose

FBI Says Local Officials Delayed Assistance in Nancy Guthrie Case Authorities believe Nancy Guthrie, an 84-year-old woman and mother of TV anchor Savannah Guthrie, was abducted from her Arizona home before being reported missing on February 1, 2026. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) spokesperson Patel addressed the agency’s involvement in the case during an interview with NewsNation’s Katie Pavlich, revealing that the FBI had offered assistance from the outset but faced significant delays in accessing critical information. Patel emphasized that the FBI’s presence was immediate, but local law enforcement in Pima County, Arizona, restricted their involvement for four days, a decision Patel described as “their choice.” The prolonged absence of a suspect and the ongoing disappearance of Guthrie have raised questions about the handling of the investigation by Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos. One major point of contention involves the sheriff’s decision to send DNA evidence to a private laboratory rather than utilizing federal resources. Patel explained that the FBI had proposed testing the DNA but was denied access, with the local department opting for a private lab instead. “We offered our assistance to go test the DNA. And it’s up to them. They chose to use a private laboratory,” Patel stated. Patel highlighted the FBI’s expertise in leveraging technology to aid investigations, citing an example involving a suspect identified through a Ring doorbell camera at Guthrie’s home. When local authorities initially failed to retrieve useful data from the camera, the FBI collaborated with Google to analyze metadata, despite the absence of a paid subscription.#fbi #nancy_guthrie #pima_county #chris_nanos #katie_pavlich

Retired Couple Loses $76,000 Life Savings To Bitcoin ATM Scam, Sues Bitcoin Depot In Federal Court A retired Idaho couple has filed a federal class action lawsuit against Bitcoin Depot Inc., alleging the company’s ATM network was exploited by scammers who drained their entire retirement savings — $76,000 — over five consecutive days in August 2025. The lawsuit, Lacey et al. v. Bitcoin Depot Inc., et al. (Case No. 1:26-cv-00288-DKG), was filed May 11, 2026, in U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho. The plaintiffs, Karen and Robert Lacey, claim fraudsters posing as Norton customer service representatives and FBI agents convinced them their accounts were linked to child pornography and illegal gambling investigations. The scammers directed the couple to deposit cash at Bitcoin Depot ATMs between August 9 and August 13, 2025, while simultaneously creating wireless networks labeled “FBI” on their phones — signals that remained visible for months after the deposits. The 43-page complaint alleges Bitcoin Depot processed each transaction “without meaningful intervention” despite clear warning signs, including first-time users making large cash deposits during calls with unknown parties. The lawsuit further criticizes the company’s fee structure, which charges up to 50% per transaction, and its reliance on on-screen warning stickers, which the plaintiffs describe as “demonstrably ineffective.” After Karen and Robert’s son filed a federal crime complaint, Bitcoin Depot issued two $1,000 refund checks, an amount the lawsuit states did not cover even the fees the company collected. Karen Lacey, who was retired when the fraud occurred, has since returned to the workforce, now working rotating hospital shifts.#fbi #federal_trade_commission #bitcoin_depots_inc #karen_lacey #robert_lacey

South Austin Residents Question Authenticity of Shelter-in-Place Alert More than 50,000 residents in South Austin received a shelter-in-place alert on Wednesday, prompting widespread confusion as many initially suspected it was a phishing scam. The alert, issued by local authorities, warned of a “dangerous and violent” person with outstanding warrants who was at large. However, its unusual formatting and lack of clear identification raised doubts among recipients, leading to mixed reactions and calls for greater transparency. Chris Bataska, a South Austin resident, received the alert while at his office on Barton Springs Road. He described the message as suspicious, noting that it included a link that appeared different from standard alerts sent by local agencies. “We’ve had a lot of phishing attempts at the company, so my first thought was to email it to IT because it looked like a different link than normal,” he said. Bataska emphasized the need for clearer identification of the sending agency, such as a trusted domain like “.gov,” and a more straightforward message structure. The alert, written in all caps, also included a link labeled “please click here to acknowledge receipt of this message,” which further fueled skepticism. John Stolz, another resident, expressed confusion and concern, stating, “It seemed really spammy.” He noted that the message lacked clarity about the sender and the specific neighborhoods affected. Stolz added that online forums like Reddit echoed similar concerns, with many users questioning the alert’s legitimacy. Approximately 30 minutes after the alert was sent, the Austin Police Department (APD) confirmed its authenticity via a post on X. The department identified the suspect as a muscular Black man in his mid-30s, wearing a white shirt and a white hat with a red brim.#fbi #austin_police_department #south_austin #chris_bataska #john_stolz

Apple Fixes Security Bug Allowing Law Enforcement Access to Deleted Signal Messages Apple has addressed a critical security flaw that enabled law enforcement agencies to access content from deleted Signal messages, a development that has sparked significant concern among privacy advocates and users of the encrypted messaging app. The issue, which involved the unintended storage of push notifications containing snippets of encrypted messages, was revealed through a report by 404 Media, a media outlet that highlighted the vulnerability during a hearing where the FBI testified about its ability to extract Signal messages from a defendant’s iPhone even after the app was deleted. The case in question was notable for being the first instance where authorities charged individuals for alleged “Antifa” activities following President Trump’s designation of the term as a terrorist organization. The vulnerability stemmed from a “logging issue” that failed to redact data, allowing copies of deleted messages to remain in the device’s push notification database for up to a month. This meant that even after messages were marked for deletion and the Signal app was uninstalled, law enforcement could potentially retrieve the content through forensic analysis of the device’s notification logs. Apple confirmed the bug in a statement, acknowledging that the push notifications should never have been stored and that the issue was resolved with a software update. Affected users are advised to update their devices to prevent the retention of “notifications marked for deletion.” Signal, the encrypted messaging platform, expressed relief at Apple’s swift response, calling the fix a “very happy” outcome.#apple #fbi #signal #404_media #antifa

FBI Investigates Disappearances and Deaths of Scientists at Secret Government Labs The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading an investigation into the deaths and disappearances of 10 scientists and staff members who worked at classified government laboratories, including facilities tied to nuclear and space technology. Senior law enforcement officials confirmed that the FBI is spearheading efforts to determine if there are connections between the cases, which span over three years and involve researchers and staff from institutions such as NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory. The agency is collaborating with the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and state and local law enforcement to gather information. Despite the FBI’s involvement, officials close to the investigations have emphasized that there is no evidence linking the cases together. The disappearances and deaths, which occurred across different locations and timeframes, have sparked widespread speculation, particularly on social media, about potential espionage or covert operations targeting U.S. nuclear and space programs. However, those familiar with the cases have dismissed such theories, suggesting the incidents are more likely the result of personal tragedies, such as illness, accidents, or suicide. President Donald Trump raised concerns about the matter last week, stating that he had recently attended a meeting on the issue and described it as “pretty serious stuff.” He acknowledged the possibility of coincidence but noted that some of the missing individuals were “very important people.#fbi #department_of_energy #department_of_defense #los_alamos_national_laboratory #national_nuclear_security_administration

Deaths and disappearances of scientists spark federal probe The House Oversight Committee announced Monday it will investigate reports of the deaths and disappearances of scientists who had access to sensitive scientific information. The FBI said it is leading efforts to find connections among the missing and deceased individuals, working with the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and local law enforcement. The cases have raised questions about possible links, though no conclusive evidence has been found. The FBI stated it is “spearheading the effort to look for connections into the missing and deceased scientists” and is coordinating with federal agencies and state and local law enforcement. The Department of Energy referred questions to the White House, while NASA confirmed it is “coordinating and cooperating with the relevant agencies” but emphasized that “nothing related to NASA indicates a national security threat.” The White House said it is also working with federal agencies to probe potential links, with President Donald Trump describing the matter as “pretty serious stuff.” The House Oversight Committee, led by Republican Rep. James Comer, called the situation a “national security threat” and is prioritizing the investigation. Comer told Fox News that the circumstances “very unlikely” to be a coincidence, prompting the committee to seek briefings from the FBI, the Defense Department, the Department of Energy, and NASA. The Defense Department said it would respond directly to the committee, and the Department of Energy did not comment beyond referring questions to the White House. The cases vary widely in circumstance. Some involve unsolved homicides, while others are missing persons cases with no signs of foul play.#nasa #house_oversight_committee #fbi #department_of_energy #department_of_defense

Nancy Guthrie Cold Case Ransom Notes Reveal New Clues, FBI Skeptical of Claims A new set of ransom notes in the Nancy Guthrie kidnapping case has surfaced, offering fresh details about the suspect's whereabouts and the FBI's response. The notes, sent to TMZ and the public, claim the kidnapper was seen in the Mexican state of Sonora, approximately 70 miles from where Nancy was abducted in Tucson, Arizona, on February 1. The sender, who has been providing information about the case for nearly two months, insists the information is credible and demands payment in Bitcoin to secure the kidnapper's capture. The first note, received by TMZ on Monday, reiterated the sender's demand for one Bitcoin to "deliver them on a silver platter." The sender also expressed frustration with the FBI's lack of action, stating that millions of dollars have been spent on the investigation without results. The sender claims the FBI has not taken the offer seriously, as no Bitcoin has been deposited into the associated wallet. In the second note, the sender added that they saw the suspect "alive with them in the state of Sonora, Mexico," but clarified that Nancy is not alive. Sonora, a large Mexican state bordering Arizona and New Mexico, is a key location in the case. Nancy's disappearance has remained a cold case since her abduction, with no official confirmation of her fate. The sender, who claims to have been out of the U.S. for over five years and has no connection to the crime, insists they are not motivated by greed. Instead, they describe a desire for justice and to live without fear of witness protection. The FBI has not confirmed the legitimacy of the notes, citing the lack of Bitcoin transactions as evidence of their skepticism.#bitcoin #fbi #nancy_guthrie #savannah_guthrie #sonora_mexico

FBI Warns Users About Data Risks From Foreign Apps The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a public warning about the potential dangers of certain foreign-developed mobile applications, particularly those originating from China. The agency’s advisory highlights the risks associated with these apps, emphasizing that they may be subject to local laws requiring companies to disclose user data to government authorities. This could expose users’ personal information, even if the apps appear harmless at first glance. The FBI’s warning serves as a cautionary message to users about the broader implications of downloading such applications and the potential compromise of their digital privacy. The FBI’s advisory specifically references China’s National Intelligence Law, which mandates that organizations and citizens support state intelligence efforts when required. Under this law, companies operating within China’s jurisdiction could be legally obligated to comply with government requests for user data. This legal framework raises concerns about the security of data stored or transmitted through apps developed by Chinese entities. The FBI warns that such compliance could lead to the unauthorized access of personal information, including sensitive details such as location data, communication records, and financial transactions. Users are advised to recognize that their data may not be fully protected if they engage with apps governed by such laws. In addition to legal risks, the FBI highlights the potential for background data collection and malware threats. Some apps may continue to gather information from a device even when not actively in use, accessing data beyond the scope of their intended functionality.#china #fbi #apple_app_store #google_play #national_intelligence_law

FBI Warns iPhone and Android Users Against Installing Apps Linked to Data Risks The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning to iPhone and Android users about potential risks associated with certain mobile applications, particularly those developed by foreign entities. The agency highlighted that these apps may collect and store personal data overseas, even if users have not explicitly installed them. The FBI emphasized that apps linked to China, such as Shein, Capcut, and others, could access extensive user data once permissions are granted. This includes not only personal information but also details from contact lists, such as names, phone numbers, and email addresses. The FBI’s advisory outlined specific warning signs that users should be aware of, including unusual battery drain, increased data usage, or suspicious account activity following the installation of an app. These indicators may suggest that an app is collecting more data than intended. The agency stressed that even individuals who do not use such apps could be affected if a friend or family member grants an app access to their contacts. Developers of these apps may store collected data, including private information and address books, which could be used for purposes beyond the user’s awareness. The FBI’s warning underscores the broader implications of data privacy in the digital age. While the agency did not explicitly name all potentially risky apps, it encouraged users to exercise caution when downloading applications, especially those from foreign developers. The advisory also highlighted the importance of reviewing app permissions and understanding what data is being accessed. Users are advised to regularly check their device settings and revoke unnecessary permissions to minimize the risk of data exposure.#data_privacy #china #fbi #shein #capcut

FBI Director's Email Hacked by Pro-Palestinian Group The Handala Hack Team, a pro-Palestinian hacking group, claimed responsibility for breaching the email accounts of FBI Director Kash Patel, stating he would now be added to a list of "successfully hacked victims." The group’s statement came as part of a broader campaign of cyberattacks attributed to Iran-linked actors, with the latest incident targeting the U.S. law enforcement agency. Reuters and CNN confirmed the breach, citing unnamed security officials and individuals with knowledge of the matter. The FBI and Department of Justice have not yet issued official comments on the incident. Patel, who assumed leadership of the FBI in 2025, has faced significant scrutiny over his tenure. Critics have accused him of misusing the agency for personal travel and advancing the policy agenda of former President Donald Trump. His leadership has also been marked by controversies surrounding the bureau’s handling of investigations and its interactions with political figures. The recent cyberattack has further complicated his public image, raising questions about the agency’s cybersecurity protocols. The Handala Hack Team, which describes itself as a group of Palestinian hacking vigilantes, has previously claimed responsibility for attacks on Western institutions. In a statement released alongside the breach, the group linked the cyberattack to a real-world event: the U.S.-Israel strike on a children’s school in Minab, Iran, which killed over 170 people, including many schoolgirls. The group framed the attack as retaliation for the strike, calling it "the beginning of a new chapter in cyber warfare.#iran #fbi #fbi_director_kash_patel #handala_hack_team #minab_iran

FBI Activity in Hoboken Linked to Assassination Plot in New York City Authorities have revealed that federal investigators uncovered a targeted assassination plot involving Nerdeen Kiswani, a Palestinian-American activist based in New York City. Kiswani, who founded the advocacy group Within Our Lifetime, is known for organizing protests and community initiatives across the city. While the broader investigation centers on activities in New York, law enforcement identified Hoboken as a key location tied to the suspect’s movements and planning. The individual involved in the plot was apprehended in Willow Terrace, a neighborhood in Hoboken. Federal officials stated that the suspect had been planning a violent attack against Kiswani, though the plot was disrupted before it could be executed. The investigation revealed that the suspect engaged in surveillance and preparation efforts, which raised significant concerns for investigators. Law enforcement agencies treated the case as credible and serious, taking action to prevent any potential harm. The case is now progressing through the legal system, with authorities emphasizing that the situation was contained and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Hoboken, a densely populated and walkable city, has faced heightened scrutiny due to the alleged connection between the suspect’s activities and the city. The incident has sparked broader discussions about safety in shared public spaces, particularly regarding the risks associated with targeting public figures. However, officials have reassured residents that the threat has been neutralized and that no further action is required. The investigation highlights the intersection of local and federal law enforcement efforts in addressing potential threats.#fbi #nerdeen_kiswani #within_our_lifetime #hoboken #willow_terraces

FBI Director Kash Patel's Personal Email Breached, Iran-Linked Hackers Claim Responsibility A hacker group affiliated with Iran has claimed responsibility for breaching the personal email account of FBI Director Kash Patel. The group, known as Handala Hack Team, stated on its website that Patel "will now find his name among the list of successfully hacked victims." The breach reportedly exposed a mix of personal and professional communications from 2010 to 2019, according to a sample of the data reviewed by Reuters. While the news outlet could not immediately verify the authenticity of the published emails, the content appeared to include both private and work-related correspondence. The U.S. Justice Department confirmed to Reuters that Patel's emails had been compromised but provided no further details. The FBI did not respond to requests for comment, and the hacker group did not reply to messages. The incident has raised concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly for high-profile officials. The Handala Hack Team’s claim adds to a growing list of cyberattacks attributed to state-sponsored actors, with Iran-linked groups frequently targeting U.S. government systems. However, the specific motives behind this breach remain unclear. Analysts have noted that such attacks often aim to gather intelligence or disrupt operations, though the exact intent in this case is yet to be determined. The breach underscores the ongoing challenges of securing sensitive digital communications, especially for individuals in positions of authority. While the Justice Department acknowledged the compromise, it did not specify whether any classified information was accessed or how the breach occurred.#justice_department #iran #fbi #fbi_director_kash_patel #handala_hack_team

Joe Kent's Resignation Sparks Division Among Trump Supporters The controversy surrounding Joe Kent, the former director of the National Counterterrorism Center, has intensified as his resignation over the war in Iran has deepened divisions within President Donald Trump’s most loyal and active online base. The situation has also reignited scrutiny over potential leaks, with new allegations emerging that Kent may have disclosed private group text messages to Candace Owens, a prominent conservative figure. According to reports, Andrew Kolvet, the spokesperson for late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, confirmed that Kent is under investigation for allegedly leaking sensitive information. This comes after a podcast claimed Kent had shared private messages with Owens. The allegations have added to the growing tension around Kent’s actions, which have already sparked debates among Trump supporters. Kent, who resigned from his position earlier this month, is facing an FBI inquiry into the disclosure of classified material. White House officials have accused him of leaking information shortly after his departure. However, Kent has consistently denied the charges, and he has not responded to requests for comment from Semafor, the outlet that first reported the allegations. The situation has highlighted the broader tensions within Trump’s political base, where some supporters are questioning Kent’s loyalty and actions, while others defend him. The controversy underscores the polarized environment surrounding Trump’s administration and the scrutiny faced by former officials. As the FBI investigation continues, the case remains a focal point for those following the intersection of politics, media, and national security.#donald_trump #fbi #joe_kent #charlie_kirk #candace_o_wens

Savannah Guthrie blames herself for mother's kidnapping Savannah Guthrie, a US television presenter, has expressed deep guilt over her mother’s disappearance, believing her fame may have made her a target. Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen at her home near Tucson, Arizona, on 1 February. Authorities suspect she was taken against her will, though no suspect has been arrested. In her first interview since the incident, Guthrie described the emotional turmoil of learning her mother was missing and the painful possibility that her own career played a role in the tragedy. Guthrie recounted the moment she discovered her mother’s absence, describing it as a shock that disrupted what had been a normal day. Her sister called to inform her that Nancy was missing, leaving Guthrie in a state of panic. The family later found the doors of Nancy’s home propped open, with her personal belongings still inside despite the apparent forced entry. Initially, they believed Nancy might have had a medical emergency, as paramedics had visited the home earlier that night. However, when hospital staff confirmed she was not there, the family’s concerns escalated. A doorbell camera at the home had been removed, raising questions about the circumstances of her disappearance. During the investigation, police released images of a masked individual captured on security footage before Nancy was taken. Days later, the FBI disclosed that two ransom notes had been sent to TMZ and local news outlets, though their authenticity remains uncertain. Guthrie emphasized that her mother had been in severe pain and struggling with mobility before the incident, adding that her mother’s condition made her vulnerable. Guthrie grappled with the possibility that her mother’s kidnapping was linked to her own public profile.#fbi #nancy_guthrie #tucson_arizona #savannah_guthrie #pima_county_sheriff_chris_nanos

Savannah Guthrie Discusses Mother's Disappearance in Emotional Interview with Hoda Kotb Savannah Guthrie, co-host of "TODAY," shared her anguish over the ongoing search for her missing mother, Nancy Guthrie, in an emotional interview with Hoda Kotb. The conversation, which aired on Wednesday, revealed the profound distress the family has endured since Nancy vanished from her home in Arizona more than seven weeks ago. Guthrie described the situation as "unthinkable" and emphasized the unbearable weight of uncertainty, stating, "We are in agony. It is unbearable." Nancy Guthrie, 84, was last seen on January 31, 2026, after having dinner at her daughter Annie’s home near Tucson, Arizona. Her family reported her missing on February 1, following her absence from a virtual church service at a friend’s house. Authorities have described the case as a potential kidnapping or abduction, though no concrete evidence has emerged. Guthrie recounted waking up each night in terror, imagining her mother’s suffering and vowing to confront the pain head-on. "Those thoughts demand to be thought," she said, refusing to conceal her emotions. The investigation has focused on a doorbell camera at Nancy’s home, which captured footage of a man matching the FBI’s description of a suspect. The camera disconnected at 1:47 a.m. on the night of her disappearance, according to a timeline released by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Forensic analysis revealed Guthrie’s blood on the porch of her home, and investigators are exploring genetic genealogy to identify unknown DNA found inside the house. The FBI is seeking a male between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall with an average build, wearing a black Ozark Trail Hiker Pack 25-liter backpack in the footage.#fbi #nancy_guthrie #hoda_kotb #savannah_guthrie #pima_county_sheriff_s_department

FBI arrests 11 in real estate and loan fraud targeting Los Angeles elderly victims The U.S. Attorney's Office revealed the arrest of 11 individuals, primarily residents of Southern California, who were involved in a sophisticated fraud scheme that exploited the identities of elderly victims to secure millions of dollars in loans. The defendants are accused of stealing property titles and using stolen personal information to perpetrate a wide-ranging financial deception. Most of the arrested individuals face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, with additional accusations including aggravated identity theft and money laundering. According to Tyler Hatcher, a special agent in charge of the IRS-CI Los Angeles Field Office, the stolen identities were used to obtain high-value real estate loans, create fabricated financial documents, and move large sums of money through a network of fraudulent businesses and accounts. The federal grand jury indictment details that from January 2021 to May 2023, Nazaret Chakrian and Arnold Moradians, both from Hollywood, stole personal information from elderly victims who owned properties in Santa Monica, Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Westwood, and Chinatown. Using this data, they generated fake identification documents and email accounts in the victims’ names. With the help of other suspects, they impersonated the victims’ agents, brokers, or relatives, fabricating documents such as bank statements, rental agreements, doctors’ notes, and death certificates to secure hard money loans from private lenders. Stolen identities were also used to open bank accounts under false names, which were then employed to channel funds from the scheme. The U.S. Attorney's Office stated that the total intended loss from this case is approximately $17.#fbi #nazaret_chakrian #arnold_moradians #us_attorney_office #irs_ci

FBI raids Hollywood mansion in $17.4M mortgage scam targeting seniors, 11 arrested including Iranian Federal agents executed a raid on a Hollywood mansion early Thursday, seizing a suspect in pajamas and dismantling an alleged $17.4 million mortgage fraud scheme targeting elderly homeowners. The operation, part of a broader investigation dubbed "Operation Hard Money," led to the arrest of 11 individuals, including an Iranian national and an Azerbaijani green card holder, accused of orchestrating a complex scheme to defraud seniors of their property. Prosecutors revealed the group exploited the vulnerability of elderly victims between 2021 and 2023, stealing personal information to create fake identities and shell email accounts. Using these fabricated credentials, the suspects applied for high-value "hard money" loans secured by the victims’ homes. The fraudulent applications included falsified documents such as bank statements, rental agreements, and medical records to deceive lenders. The scheme reportedly resulted in approximately $6 million in actual losses for victims. During the raid, agents surrounded the property, which was described as recently remodeled and featuring luxury vehicles parked outside. The suspect, who walked out of the home with his hands up before being handcuffed, was among 11 defendants charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and multiple counts of wire fraud. Several also face aggravated identity theft and money laundering charges. The defendants include Nazaret Chakrian, Arnold Moradians, Avetis Hekimyan, Ross Tarkhan, Tigran Hovanesian, Armen Vardevaryan, Craig Higdon, Helen Spangler, Victor Lossi, Marine Sarkisian, and Cynthia Borjas.#fbi #operation_hard_money #nazaret_chakrian #arnold_moradians #azerbaijani

LA's $17M Mortgage Sting: 9 Arrested in Sophisticated 'House Stealing' Scheme Federal and local law enforcement agents conducted a coordinated operation on March 19, leading to the arrest of nine individuals in a complex mortgage fraud scheme. The investigation, spanning Southern California and beyond, involved the FBI, Los Angeles Police Department, and multiple other agencies. The operation targeted a group accused of stealing personal identifying information from elderly victims to fraudulently secure loans backed by real estate properties. The arrests followed a years-long investigation led by the FBI’s Eurasian Organized Crime Task Force, with support from the IRS, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and local law enforcement agencies. Authorities revealed that the suspects used stolen identities to access property records in areas such as Santa Monica, Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Westwood, and Chinatown. The scheme allegedly allowed them to secure approximately $6 million in loans, despite misleading private lenders about the legitimacy of the collateral. During a raid in North Hollywood, agents surrounded a residence and arrested one suspect, who was taken into custody after walking out of the home in pajamas with his hands raised. The property, described as recently remodeled, had several luxury vehicles parked outside. The operation was the first of several simultaneous arrests across multiple jurisdictions, with additional suspects still at large. Prosecutors detailed the group’s method as a multi-step process involving identity theft, property fraud, and financial manipulation. The suspects allegedly created fraudulent businesses to channel illicit funds, using stolen identities to obtain high-value real estate loans.#fbi #los_angeles_police_department #irs #us_postal_inspection_service #eurasian_organized_crime_task_force